Mission Engaged

Rude Awakening: Mission Road

“What’s the plan for tomorrow?”

“Long Ride but, don’t worry, we start out real easy.”

::Why do I listen to triathletes?::

Day 1: 4.5 hour 82 mile ride out into the desert. Way out!

I’ve been sick the past week and, slowly but surely, I’ve been feeling better. I made sure to listen to my body; I made myself that promise before I left the house.

I met up with Bec, Laurel and the crew, which included a current ironman world champ, a several time ironman champ, and a few other big tymers. I barely introduced myself because I was honestly a bit shell shocked. I quickly thought, “Hm, this should be fun.”

Once we hit Mission Rd, an hour long false flat with a crazy cross wind, someone stomped the pedal to the medal and it wasn’t who you think it would be. I was ok but, I knew it’d all catch up later since it was going to be a “planned” 4 hour ride. I made it and went straight to trying to recover as soon as possible.

“Justin’s here.”

“I know I can’t believe it. It’s so surreal.”

That’s Laurel and I on the way home with Bec churning the pedals slightly ahead. I went straight to recalling this time last year.

Sick.

Injured.

Not enough $$ to come.

Broken.

I remember sitting on the couch in the middle of the day sick, watching some crappy mid-day show (probably the Price is Right) when it happened. Tears. I don’t get upset much but, I know how hard I’ve worked to get to where I am and I was more than disappointed to not be able to make it to the camp. I promised myself –made it a mission– I’d do whatever it took to get here in 2011. And, I’m here– on Mission Rd.– healthier, motivated and grateful. The game face is on!

A long run is planned for tomorrow.

“6:45-7:00 pace.”

::We’ll see about that::