Road Warrior Health & Wellness Challenge II

Road Warrior Health & Wellness Update: 

Three months ago while travelling for work in Raleigh, NC I found a local fitness publication at the hotel that caught my eye.  Like most travelling salespeople I usually grab the USA Today, but this trip I grabbed this local publication and was intrigued by all of the races coming up in North Carolina.  I love signing up for an event whether a run, bike, or triathlon every few months and there was an ad for the Hickory Nut Olympiad (http://hickorynutolympiad.com) which had a full weekend of events for all ages and interests.  I was sold.  I signed up that week for the Sprint Triathlon and put it on the calendar.

I enjoy training and working toward getting a PR (personal record) or placing in my age group.  I always set a goal to shoot for and then just do my best.  I wanted to participate in one event each day of the Olympiad, but knew that our family schedule may not permit.  It turns out my oldest son had a soccer tournament the same weekend so I skipped the 25 mile bike ride Sunday to the top of Chimney Rock so that I could attend his final day of games .  I did however arrive Friday night in time to sign up for the 10k Dam Run which started at 7pm.  As with many races I started out way too fast and before I realized it I was half way through the run and still feeling great. I pushed through and quickly knew that I was looking at a PR.  I caught the group in front of me and did my best to hang on until the end.  I finished several minutes better than any previous 10k and was shocked that I performed so well despite all of the hills.  I was feeling great going into the weekend.

When I woke up the next morning to my 5:30 alarm I was feeling the effects of my PR from the night before and knew it was going to be tough day in the mountains.  I had a tough swim, felt great on the bike and was completely spent on the run.  I pushed through the pain and was very pleased with my overall accomplishment, but I did not earn a PR or age group win.  I did love the challenge and the beautiful views during the race.  This venue was absolutely amazing and I hope to have my family and friends with me next year to enjoy this amazing weekend together.

I would encourage all of you to find an event near you, set some goals, train smart, and enjoy the challenge.