View from the sidelines

Last night I had a dream that I ran a 2:56 marathon. It was one of the most vivid dreams I've had in a while. It was a big race, maybe Chicago or New York. I was smiling. And it felt easy.

Rob reminded me that I was laying down a the time and that might be why it felt easy. Right. Bubble burst. A 2:56 would certainly be hard work--I'd take a 2:59:59!

I think I'll always have athletic goals of some sort. Right now, I'll put my sub-3 marathon dream on the shelf until after my Ironman in FIVE WEEKS!
My Ironman dream is similar to the marathon dream--to be happy crossing that finish line.

I've sat out the last week or so of training. That week or so included a half ironman. Instead of racing I decided to support Rob & a few other Cycos. I forgot how challenging it is to be a good spectator/supporter/race sherpa.


Between counting age group legs, carrying heavy bags, cheering, moving to various points along the course, taking photos, applying suncreen, staying hydrated, re-applying sunscreen, helping Rob through the panic of having forgot his wetsuit (not a race sherpa responsibility!), I was knackered by the end of it. I think I ended up more burnt and dehydrated than Rob!

But I wasn't jealous. Not one bit.

I was very, very happy being at the sidelines, latte in one hand, camera in the other, hollering motivational abuse at my athletes. If anything made them go faster it was getting through the Karla-zone as quickly as possible. You're welcome, fellas!


[The wonderful people at Aquashop gave Rob a sleeveless wettie to borrow for the day. He did a PB of 25 minutes for his 1.9km swim!]

[Notice how lonely Rob is coming out of the water]

Pre-race relaxation:
The view from our veranda (right on the run course):
T2:

All done!


Rob's post-race ritual. The only time I'm OK with two women double-teaming my husband:


People still going, hours after Rob had finished. Inspirational:

Enjoying the fresh sea air: