Alright...I've ignored my blog for an entire year, so it's time to write an update. Hmmm...let's start with how 2007 went. I had a great year both at work and with triathlons. I accomplished one of my goals of winning my age group in the Boulder Triathlon Series and have reaped the benefits of some free skiing at Steamboat this winter! Although my season didn't end as hoped at the 70.3 World Championships, I had a really successful year in general. Shortly after the 70.3, I had the pleasure of returning to Davis, CA to celebrate my 40th b-day...courtesy of my old tri buddies! We had a fun time at my 60's theme b-day bash.
2007 was my year to skip IM Hawaii in order to prepare for my emergency & critical care board exam. It was a great decision as I sat boards in September and passed all parts, much to my surprise! My reward will be to return to Hawaii this year as a newbie to the 40-44 age group with every intention to reclaim my past level of success at that race (i.e. win ; ). I do have that little obstacle called "qualifying" in the way. In the past, that has never been a problem, but I may have some obstacles this year consisting of fellow teammates on the MarkAllenOnline elite team (i.e. Cassie McWilliam) and good racing buddies of many years (i.e. Kathy Winkler). How can these gals still run 37 minute 10K's off the bike at over 40? They are truly amazing athletes! I just wish we weren't in the same races in the same age group, but at the same time, it's fun to have such triathlon rock stars as teammates and friends!
Since I mentioned it, yes, I am part of a team once again this year...the MarkAllenOnline elite amateur triathlon team. I've been eyeing this team for the past few years, as I've had the pleasure to race with a few of their athletes at the Boulder Series and have always been incredibly impressed by their racing talent. So I contacted the coaches and put in my application as soon as it came out. Fortunately, they adopted me onto the team and I'm ecstatic to be a part of it. I'm loving the training program so far and feel like it's really building my aerobic engine...without making me slower in the process. This year will be the true test! I'm optimistic to say the least.
Here's my race plan for 2008:
St Croix 70.3 (possible Kona qualifier)
World's Toughest Half (not a definite, but a probable race)
Buffalo Springs 70.3 (my "A" race for Kona qualification)
5430 Sprint
Boulder Peak Tri
5430 Long Course
IM Hawaii (I'm going no matter what...even if I don't race. Already got my ticket!)
I also plan to work my arse off. Tenure packets go in next year so I have my work cut out for me! Must publish...must publish...must publish ; ).
That's it for now. Thanks for reading.
Best,
Diana
