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Quick Little Race Getaway to Mesa, Arizona

Quick Little Race Getaway to Mesa, Arizona

MESA, ARIZONA HALF MARATHON!!

There is nothing quite like the joy of escaping the biting cold and deep snow for a destination race in the warmth and altitude of a different climate. For Shelley Kirkpatrick and her husband, this meant leaving winter behind and heading to the sunny landscapes of Arizona. Their trip wasn't just about the race; it was a blend of golf, hiking, and the thrill of racing, offering a respite from the Canadian cold.

Shelley is part of our Ironman Ottawa Group Training Program. After a period of rebuilding her distance and gradually getting back into peak form, this race in Arizona was a significant milestone on her journey to becoming Ironman ready once again.

Congratulations, Shelley, on an incredible race and on the journey ahead! Your story is an inspiration to all who strive to push their limits and achieve their dreams.

Coach Julia


Here is Shelley's report:


Our Little Quick Getaway to Mesa, Arizona

Our little quick getaway to Mesa, Arizona, was a trip down memory lane as we returned to participate in the Mesa Marathon and Half Marathon for the first time since 2020, just before the pandemic. Despite the current complexities of our relationship with the US, our excitement to return to this beloved race was palpable.

The Race Plan

My race plan was to use the half marathon as a training run for the upcoming Ironman Ottawa, considering my current health status wasn't ideal for pushing the pace. With chronic niggles being managed by my physiotherapist and sports doctor, a run/walk strategy based on perceived effort was the chosen approach. All I wished for was to maintain an even and steady pace, focusing on my form and turnover.

Race Conditions and Preparation

Having experienced this race before, I knew the sun would be a formidable adversary. Starting in the cold desert temperatures and in the dark, the first 10 km were lovely. To prepare, I engaged in heat training prior to our departure by cranking up the heat in the paincave and utilizing the sauna at the gym. The elevation change from 70m above sea level to 405m was definitely noticeable. We gave ourselves a few days of hiking, golfing, and easy runs prior to race day to help adjust.

Nutrition Strategy

Nutrition was wonderfully spot on! Sticking with what I know works for me, especially in the heat, was crucial. Given the super early start due to the temperatures, an early dinner and bedtime were necessary. My morning meal consisted of half a bagel, peanut butter, and a banana. I took a Ucan gel with caffeine approximately five minutes before starting and carried handheld hydration with LMNT, which I topped up with water at the halfway mark. Additionally, I consumed two Precision chews, providing 30 grams of carbs (120 calories).

Race Experience

With close to 10,000 runners, this race is incredibly inclusive, catering to everyone from back-of-the-packers to elites. This inclusivity creates a well-supported race and a terrific atmosphere. Despite the challenges, the camaraderie and shared experiences with fellow runners made the journey worthwhile.

Looking Forward

Moving forward, I’m excited to support more local races for my training runs. It’s way more fun to have others suffering alongside you, making each race a shared adventure.

Shelley


Triathlon Training near Team Triumph Triathlon Club + Triathlon Store

From treading water to an Olympic Triathlon

A year ago I could only tread water and had not run since childhood.  With the amazing Virtual Olympic course, support, guidance, and tips from of all the folks at Team Triumph I've ended the season with my first Olympic distance triathlon under my belt and am hooked!  Really looking forward to the 2025 season and even to the hard work over the winter to prepare.  Karen Houle

Triathlon Training near Team Triumph Triathlon Club + Triathlon Store

Private Swim Lessons

I wanted to let you know that the Perth triathlon was a great experience, I somehow placed third in my age group! What a supportive group of participants (including Team Triumph athletes), cheering bystanders and volunteers. 


Thanks to your swim lessons, I learned the technical basics and gained confidence to get back in the pool after decades. And it was really special doing this with Ann Laidlaw, my bestie for many years.  We did a couple of additional swims with Kevin and Team Triumph people, also a great way to continue learning and practicing good technical form.

I will continue with lane swimming and who knows, maybe there's another triathlon in my future!

 

Triathlon Training near Team Triumph Triathlon Club + Triathlon Store

Virtual 70.3 Half Ironman Course is Incredible

I love the accountability and the structure of the Virtual 70.3 Half Ironman training program.  I don't think I would have gotten this far without the program. The accountability is huge for me!

Deborah Jackman

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