In case you didn’t know, I don’t do one thing at a time. Even when I got pregnant, I had twins. I never take the easy way out (even when I should!) and often bite off more then I can chew but then put my head down and get.it.done.
So, like a lot of things I take on, I didn’t think too much about running a marathon in April, a Duathlon in May and a Triathlon in June. What? Of course this would be all well and good if I didn’t have huge goals for each race!
April 26 – New Jersey Long Branch Marathon, 26.2 Miles
Training: As you know, I’ve been seriously training for this since January. I’ve run multiple 20 milers, I hit the track for speed work every week and never miss a tempo run. I was sidelined by a health scare, have had a few nagging little injuries, traveled to Vegas and have had countless other family and work commitments that made it very hard to train, but somehow, I took it one day at a time and worked it all out.
At three weeks out, I feel ready.
Previous Marathon: I haven’t run a marathon in 8 years. What the hell am I thinking? (see how quickly that confidence flew out the window?) Most days the distance scares the heck out of me, even though I know I’m trained for it. Running 26.2 miles is a very long way (hello captain on it) especially when you haven’t gone the distance since George W. Bush was President.
Race Day: I did a very foolish thing. I looked up the race results from last year. Why? Why would I do that to myself when I know I can’t resist being competitive? This will be my very first race in my new 40+ age group. Just typing that made me throw up in my mouth.
I’m planning on running a 7:40 pace which will put my finish time around 3:20. Last year that finish time would put me in the top 10 overall and have me winning my age group. Do I need this pressure? NO! But now it’s in my head like a Taylor Swift song.
May 17 – Glastonbury Duathlon, 3 mile run/16 mile bike/3 mile run
Training: Since this is a mere three weeks after my marathon, I’ve been training for it as long as I’ve been training for the marathon. From the start my coach has incorporated swimming, biking and bricks into my weekly regimen, (even though there’s no swimming in a duathlon) and, not only has it made my running stronger, but it’s helping set my mind for the quick transition from marathon to duathlon.
I’m definitely worried about not having as much time on the bike as I would like, but I’m guessing I will be doing a lot more cycling starting April 27. I’m hoping and praying I will be able to bike outside but it snowed on Easter so…
Previous Duathlon: One word people – SWORD!
Race Day: I’m going to do my best, but I haven’t had nearly as much bike training and this course is serious. Obviously I want to be the one to break the tape again this year, but I’ll have to reassess after the marathon. There’s always that new age category to fall back on, unfortunately du and triathletes get better, stronger and faster with age. I have yet to look up the age group results from last year. I’ll save that pressure for another day.
June 7 – Westfield Wave Triathlon, .5 mile swim/13 mile bike/3 mile run
Training: I’ve been in the pool like a fool, twice a week (most weeks) since January. Guess where I haven’t been swimming? I hate swimming in open water almost as much as my kids hate bedtime, and this Tri is the first week in June! Did someone say ‘wetsuit?’ Oh yes, that was me.
Previous triathlon: Here’s another blast from the past. I haven’t raced a triathlon since the one held in my town back in the summer of 2013. As you may recall, this year was supposed to be my ‘year of triathlon’ but then I got a little email from the New York Road Runners saying I qualified to run NYC. #ChangeofPlan
Race Day: This is a USAT sanctioned event. If I place in the top 10 women, I qualify to race at Nationals. So, just another little race with zero pressure.
In training for three different disciplines, I have never felt better. My body is loving the cross-training and my mind is working overtime to keep up with the demands of my training.
My advice to anyone who is getting older, in need of motivation or just plain bored with their workouts is to change it up. Try something new – or three new things – and see what sticks. So many people tell me they run because it’s “the best thing for (fill in the blank).” Wrong. The “best” workout is the one you will do over and over again for a lifetime of health.
Plus, if I keep this up, 50 won’t be able to catch me!
What are your health/race goals for the coming months?
When is the last time you changed your workout routine?
What is your least favorite workout?
WHoa! I did not know that you had all these planned, thats crazy! You are amazing Allie, and I seriously think you are who I want to be when I grow up. I want that enthusiasm and strength to shine through me someday 🙂
Excited for us for our marathons, but I will be doing basically nothing for 2 weeks after, and you will be a rockstar preparing for your Dualthlon, amazing!
You will be resting after your marathon (as you should!) since a 7:40 pace for you is like your easiest of easy days!! You will be rocking that marathon and I cannot wait to see how it all unfolds. And, just so we’re clear, YOU are my shero and I have no doubt you will be doing great things for many, many years to come!
Wow, this is awesome and loved that last message about 50 not catching you, as I think 50 definitely has nothing on you! 😉
Thanks Janine!! Let’s hope!
Omg this is amazing I wish I could cheer you on at every event!! I love reading these posts because I have the opposite reaction to races– I’m all yolo let me run a race every weekend because it’s fun–you are all like I’m going to win every damn race and sword in the universe. YES! I am in awe of you my friend and you are going to murrrrder all of these races–try not to feel the pressure because you got this!!
This is exactly why we get along so well!! xoxo
What I know is that you have helped me believe that the hardest part is just wanting it…the rest is just work. I am starting to believe that I want it because you show me how much fun it can be. I never hear you complain and you are an amazing athlete! I can’t wait for the call after each race! Crush it!
Thank you so much Shannon! You KNOW you will be the first person I call after each event 🙂 And, I complain a lot in my mind…
You go from one sport to two to three! You are really a glutton for punishment! 🙂
I did a triathlon for my 30th bday and once was enough for me! Although I was really proud of myself for accomplishing it and finishing third in my age group.
Your sword is my favorite accomplishment of yours!
I am definitely looking for punishment! I’m also looking forward to some REST in June/July before I really ramp up for NYCM.
Thanks Britt! The sword is my favorite too – for sure.
Ha, ha–I always look up old race results–well, at least if I am feeling good about my fitness! (which is not this year). You will smoke them all, I have no doubt. I’m really excited for you, especially about the marathon. I think it’s good that you have a little fear of the distance, too–everyone should!
This morning in the pool I was thinking that I should sign up for IronGirl tri here in August. Then I remembered I have a marathon Oct. 1 and I know that realistically, I won’t want to train for both at the same time. This is what happens when 50 really is about to catch you!
Everyone should respect the marathon distance, right? As for training for three disciplines at once, it’s so much better on my body then just pounding out runs but totally time consuming so you have to want it!! And, you are my guide for what a 50 year-old athlete is so keep it up my friend!!
That is a crazy schedule Allie! I know you of all people will be able to crush it like it’s your job! My only race goal right now is my half marathon the first Saturday in May which will be tough will all the other crap that has been going on in my life right now. Next year I may find a coach depending on if I can afford it.
A half is a fantastic goal – totally doable but a lot of hard work. You know I believe in the power of a great coach so, if you can, definitely invest in one!! Thanks Kris.
You. Rock. Seriously.
HA HA! Thanks Leah. We’ll see how all of this shakes out…
I love this look back… I do the same thing with competitions. It’s funny how differently we approach each event. Love the Taylor Swift song analogy, too. LO!
I think you have to, right? I’m so glad you appreciate my humor 🙂
Hmmm…you already have one sword. And as we both know, two is better than one. I’m sure you’ll have dualing swords above your fireplace really soon.
How cool would that be? Although I’m scared of what would happen if the boys each got a hold of one!!
OMG you are crazy. But crazy in a way that only you can be and I have a sneaky feeling that you are going to rock all those races. I especially can’t wait to see you walk away with another sword!
Now that would be amazing but that’s probably the most competitive race so, we shall see…
You are a mad woman, and I love it! Can’t wait to hear about how all the events go. By the way, Long Branch is about 20 minutes from the town I grew up in!
Yes, I’m a tad nuts but there’s no one here to reign me in so…
How cool that Long Branch is so close to your home town! The pictures I’ve seen look beautiful. I’m really excited to see the ocean at the finish!
Where is your LOS ANGELES RACE?!?!?
I am desperate for one!!! But, I’m thinking I’ll be seeing you in Denver my friend 🙂
OH YES YOU WILL! BEST BIRTHDAY PRESENT EVER!
YEAH BABY!
I always look back! I think I need to take a more variety approach to racing. Something to consider.
It just helps to change things up and it’s exciting to do something different!
Allie, you are my role model. Way to go… love the twin comment!
And you are mine! Thanks Emma 🙂
I’m not where you are or a lot of your readers are, but I’m getting back in the groove and I came here because I need ALL THE INSPIRATIONS.
Here we go.
I love it!!! Good luck!
I bet some of my childhood friends will be at the New Jersey one! Man, you and spring. I always think of last spring when you were planning your huge trip. You are a force and I love it!
I know! I think about that a lot. Nothing I could do would top last spring. Great, great memories!!!
Wow, inspirational!! That’s a lot of goals – good for you!
Thank you!!…now the hard part of actually doing them 🙂
And this is just one more reason why you are awesome and an inspiration to so many!!!
I have no doubt that you will crush your goals in all 3 of these races!!!
You are fixing to show 40 how it’s done!!!
That’s right Kim!!! Hahaha – thank you!!
I can’t wait to see how your races go. You are such an inspiration to me and so strong and disciplined. Good luck with the final weeks before the marathon and get ready to crush your goals!
Thank you so much!! I love all the training, the hard part will be putting it all together on race day!
I’m sufficiently impressed. I have no doubt that you will achieve your goals Allie!
Thanks so much Michelle. I guess I needed to head into my forties with some scary stuff – these three races scare me a lot more then turning 40!
Yeah!! You ROCK Allie!!
You are going to be awesome in all THREE races!! You are a stud. Seriously 🙂
Thanks Natalie – we shall see… 🙂
Oh my goodness lady, you’re a warrior.
Which is why you totally need that sword.