just to clarify....

No, I have not actually ridden the ACTUAL bike - but I got in my bike sessions on the stationary bike at the gym (the upright, not the reclining!).  It's coach sanctioned and completely allowed.  So there.

week one of training - done!

Week one of training is over and, according to the little calendar our TNT coaches gave us, that means there are 20 weeks left until the Wildflower Triathlon.  Now I know that sounds like a lot of time but consider this - I have not ridden the bike yet.  I would blame it on the weather but that is not really the case.  I have the helmet, I got the bike tuned up, I even got a great little bag for under the seat  and oh yeah, some padded tri shorts (thanks super sale at Jackrabbit!).  I've got the stuff and now I'm just waiting for the right time.  Soon.

As for my first Group Training Session (GTS) - those tri coaches kick butt!  We ran for about 40 minutes in a hilly section section of Riverside Park and did core and strength exercises on the wet grass between 10 minute sets.  Ramon only made us do planks and lunges on the asphalt once.  I fear these exercise breaks are a regular part of the tri training.  I'll let you know after Wednesday's run GTS.  

And I am proud to report that I followed the training calendar to a T!  2 run sessions, 2 swim sessions and 2 bike sessions.  Now if I could just start eating properly.....

I have a bike

Thanks to my friend Jason I now have a bike.  A beautiful Trek 800 bike that I took to the bike shop today.  They tuned it, cleaned it, and even added a kickstand!  I also am the proud owner of a helmet.  Now to get on the bike and ride it.... (I walked it to the bike shop.)  Baby steps.

The title has changed....

...and the goal is mostly the same - just a little bit expanded!  I'm doing it again.  I have signed up with TEAM IN TRAINING to train for an endurance event and raise money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.  Not another marathon, but a TRIATHLON!!! I can't quite believe it myself.  I don't even own a bike! 

This time the fundraising goal is $4900 and I'll be traveling to Monterey, California to compete in the Wildflower Olympic Triathlon.  (And by "compete" I mean "attempt to finish without hurting myself.")  My pal Maggie will be competing in the Half Ironman distance of the same event.  She's one of many who inspired me to take this next step.  So visit my fundraising page if you get a chance (link on the right) and wish me luck.  I'll be posting more soon about the event, my training and why the heck I think I can do this!