Road Warrior...Business Conference

Kauai, Hawaii | Made Some Time for Fitness

I had a business conference in Hawaii this past week and although our schedule was busy with meetings and entertaining I was still able to log some miles and hit the gym a few times.  Here are a few of the highlights from my workouts this past week.  The views were breathtaking and inspiring.  I logged 1750 meters of swimming in the Pacific Ocean, 66 miles of cycling (rain or shine), and 32 miles of running.  The awesome scenery helped me realize just how important it is to get out and see the world on foot (or bike) even if you are "too busy."

The view at mile 3 along Lawai Road (above)

Mile 11 photo opportunity from nice tourist like myself (above)

Waimea Canyon

Ride along the Pacific Ocean (dozens of rainbows)

"Live Life To The Fullest" (random side road)

Sunset from balcony - post ride (made it back before dark :-)).

I am very happy to be home with my family and to share this experience with each of you.  I hope to have a whole series of  "Road Warrior" stories throughout the year to help share my story as a travelling salesman who finds a way to make fitness a part of his life regardless of the obstacles.  Thanks for reading.

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.