March 2008
CA 70.3

My first race of the season didn’t go exactly how I would have liked, but it was good chance to see where I am this early in the year, and it turned out to be a good learning lesson. Now, I know what I need to work on and this race experience has built a little fire under me and has helped me refocus my training some.

I had a mediocre swim, and then felt good and strong on the bike, working my way up through the field. The first half of the run went well, and I was right on pace, right where I wanted to be. I felt happy to be there racing and even managed a big smile when I passed my cheering section, and an even bigger smile when I saw “Go Erin Ford!” written in chalk on the roadway. All was going along great until the second loop on the run when my stomach revolted. I tried to hold it off and take my mind elsewhere, but I was forced to slow way down to a shuffle. I couldn’t avoid it … I had to detour into a restroom (at mile 12!). It’s hard to race when you’re sitting in a bathroom!

Anyway, I did finish, but not where I wanted to.

I am now looking forward to racing again in four weeks down in Florida