Tina Takes Kona

Cycle U Triathlon Team member Tina isn't exactly known for her ego. Her modesty is almost believable unless you've ever ridden with her, in which case you quickly adjust to seeing her back disappear into the distance while she sprints ahead...up hill.

On May 31st 2009, Tina joined hundreds of other triathletes along the Kohala Coast of Kona, Hawaii for Ironman 70.3. Included below is Tina's race report:

What a fantastic experience !! I cant believe I particpated in a race with Ironman Champions Craig Alexander, Chris Leito, Belinda Graigner, S. McGlone and other amazing triathletes! Rae Shaw, from Seattle (and a Cycle U member) was there also and came in 3rd woman overall with some amazing times!

My report is nothing like Marta's (WAY to GO CHAMP!) I definitely cannot say that I raced up to my expectations but I did come close to my goals on the swim and the bike....some problems on the run though that I couldn't quite plan for.

My swim goal was not to panic with the mass swim start and try for 45-50 minutes easy swim. I treaded water about 50 yards behind the 1300 other swimmers and watched their frenzied start as the cannon went off and the swimmers in the water and the beach swam and kicked madly to the first bouy. Once the water stopped churning and the bay was calm again I started my nice easy swim in a zen like state. Not the best plan but I came out of the water with my heart rate low. It was so nice to swim in warm salt water without a wet suit! (57 min)

The bike leg was great! My goal was 2:59. Learned all about the crazy winds on the Kohala coast, lots of long rolling hills, 95 degrees w/80% humidity, great aid stations(hydrated at each one) and was able to see the pros race the return leg from Hawi. Stuck to my plan of holding back a little so my legs wouldn't be so thrashed for the run and only fell off my bike once... (3:04)

The run leg was BRUTAL. Had plenty of energy off the bike but the first 2 miles the old sciatic caused a searing pain in my buttock :-) w/each step. Finally it loosened up a bit after 2-3 miles but by then the heat started taking its toll. The "real -feel temp" was over 100 degress. I'm from ALASKA..60 degrees is hot for me!!! THERE WERE NO TREES OR SHADE ON THAT WHOLE COURSE! Thank goodness for all the volunteers with their sponges, ice, MORE SUNSCREEN and gatorade. Think I walked the fasted 1/2 marathon ever !

All in all it was a great experience. Thank you all for helping me the past few months by running and riding with me and of course Ed for his coaching, classes and patience.... ..learned a lot and had a fantastic trip!