Brad Kaye, Busselton Ironman Race Report

Brad Kaye Talks about his day out at Ironman Western Australia. Great read, well written and emotional. All with only 2 years of racing under his belt...damn!!!

BK Race day report

It was one week after IMWA 2012 that I had my first introduction to triathlons, all be it as a spectator supporting my beautiful wife in her first every tri at Hilary’s over the enticer distance.  I knew people that did them, but did not really get why or expect to ever participate in one myself  - it involved swimming (which definitely was not high on my recreational enjoyment list), I had never ridden a road bike in my life, and after too many years of football in my younger years, completing  a 10K run was a massive achievement.    Nothing was further from the realms of possibility or thought then that one day I would been lining up at the start line of an Ironman event.

Fast forward two years and the day was here.  Standing on the start line, the nerves were there but controlled, helped considerably by standing next to two of my new mates and fellow GKe athletes,  Alan and Jarrad.  All of us first timers, but eager to hit the water and trust that the months of hard work would be rewarded by days end.  A few fist pumps and back slaps and we were ready to go!   The gun fired and we hit the water.  I had expected it to be like a melee for the first 500m, but the field was quite dispersed and was surprised at how quickly I slipped into a good stroke rhythm.  My two goals for the swim were simple - make the cut off time, and ensure I did not burn too much petrol in the process.   I quickly found a “guide” for the swim, a guy with a green cap and sleeveless wetsuit (who if I ever meet I will owe many beers) and stuck to him like glue.  He was swimming reasonably straight and at a good pace so I settled in on his toes for the duration.  Before long we had hit the end of the jetty and were making the turn to head back to shore, green cap was still dragging me along, only needing the occasional tap on the toes to push him along when his pace slowed.  The sense of achievement and relief was high as I saw the shallow water emerge as we neared shore, and as I stood and jogged out of the water I felt reasonably fresh, and got a buzz hearing them call the name of another GKe athlete in Justine Bolton’s finishing right behind – she had joked with me at the camp she was going to draft me all the way and looked like she had !  A swim time of 1:07:39 was much quicker than my expectations and was a great way to start the day.

Bike –I ran out of the change tent straight into the smiling face of Jarrad who looked as excited as me to have ticked the swim leg off.  We both strode out to collect the bikes and head out together to start the grind. The plan for the bike was simple – sit on my target power output and try to pace off some other riders when the field thinned out.  The first lap was hectic, plenty of passing and being passed, only to have to then pass them again (is it me that speeds up after being passed, or them slowing down.. )  Jarrod stuck right on my tail and would pull alongside occasionally for a chat, a good mental break for us both and an opportunity to make sure that we were on target for nutrition, salt intake etc.  It went by surprisingly quickly though, having ridden the course on the camp a few weeks earlier was a massive psychological advantage. Lap two started with a quick stop for my spare bottle of Infinite from special needs (rookie error #1 – should have yelled my number when I went past to make sure they had it ready).  Jarrod went past and kept spinning, but I was able to catch back up and we were back in formation by the time we hit the outskirts of town.  The field had spread a lot by this stage making it hard to find a suitable pacing bunny, so focus remained on maintaining steady power and keeping up with  the nutrition intake  (the mars bar at the 140km mark the highlight of the day !) .  As I closed in on town on the way back the goose bumps raised slightly as for the first time in this Ironman adventure I was 100% confident of finishing, even a mechanical failure on the bike could be managed from this close to the end, and I had plenty of time to drag my butt along the 42km run awaiting me. Feet out of shoes, hand the bike to the catcher, a quick detour by the toilet and it was done .  Bike 4:54:51

Run – one word, sucked.  Well the last 20K did, up until then the legs felt good and focus remained on fluid intake and Guys continual drumming into me of the importance of pacing myself . Band 1 collected, feeling great, band 2 collected, legs are getting sore but pain is manageable, my mind is racing with calcs on my timing splits – keep up this pace and I am going to smash 10 hrs in my first IM, this was never on the radar.  Past the crowd and family support, words of encouragement giving me another boost.  And then whack – I hit the aid station at around the 22K mark, there are people everywhere all stopped, I slow to a walk for the first time since the race had started to grab some fluids, and then as I tried to hit my stride again, then mind and legs win their first battle.  Every step feels like knives are being driven into my quads and my toes start curling in cramp to add to the enjoyment.  I knew the legs would recover, it was just how long it would take, and how long they could then sustain anything above a shuffle/walking pace.  Kate had said that lap 3 was going to be hard – boy was that the understatement of the day.  The next lap and a half were slow and painful, but every step was one less I needed to take.  With about 3K to go I ran past Kate and Guy supporting all their athletes through the final stages. An encouraging pat on the back from Guy and Kate’s cheers released the last ounce  of energy and mental pain suppressions that I had available to push me to the finish line.  The 4^th band collected, a quick flinch from another toe cramp at the Goose and then it was time to stride out, letting out the last final scream to the family that I had the 4 bands and was heading to the finish chute.  Some high fives on the red carpet with the crowd (including the family that is unfortunately a bit foggy in the memory) and the finish line and clock were there.  I somehow even managed to leap into the air to high five the clock as I crossed the line.  Run 4:18:26. Total time 10:27:01. 

Recovery time, hugs and kisses with the family, and then back to the balcony of the house we were staying at which was right on the run turn, for a cold beer to watch the real ironman champions continue, those that can keep the mental fortitude to continue into hour 15, 16 and beyond.

The experience has still not sunk in, and may never fully.  My whirlwind introduction to triathlons was complete, within two years going from a supporter, to a competitor in my first  tri on Australia day over a novice distance (which included a 400m swim that I was able to walk about 200m thanks to low tide), progressing to doing the run leg in the teams event at busso70.3 (first time running 21K), to a few solo 70.3’s to finally Ironman finisher.

Whilst Ironman is a solo event, it is defiantly something that cannot be embarked on individually. A massive thanks goes out to the GKe team; to Guy for managing to keep me focussed and training consistently right up until the big day, which even included stints in 5 different countries for work during the lead up to the big event (which resulted in the development of some very creative training plans); and to Kate, who provided the insights into the focus and determination required to complete this challenge, which remained front of mind in those last few laps - your body only hurts if your mind lets it! To the family that put up with me being either at work, training, asleep, training or present but grumpy over the last few months, I hope the experience of the day was enough to make up for this sacrifice.  To the friends that supported me all the way to the end, by either traveling to be there from start to finish, and those that couldn’t so doing remotely, tracking me through every checkpoint and facebook update. But the real hero is my wife – the girl I had a crush on the day I met her in year 8 at school, the girl who took me to the circus for the first time at 25, pushed me out of a plane at 30, made me buy a road bike for my first tri (you are not riding your mountain bike!), surprised me with getting a TT bike made up for me  (how many wife’s do that!), then installed a power meter on the bike to ensure I would not explode on the ride (I really have to stop travelling for work – it gets very expensive …) and has pushed me the whole way along to ensure that I believed in myself and could reach my potential.  The highlight of 2015 will be getting to repay that love, support and dedication as she commences her journey to also complete an IM, with her already signed up for IMWA2015.

I was determined that IM was definitely only going to be something I would do once  – many more experienced IM athletes had laughed at me when I expressed this .  I think I now understand why ….

Jarrad reports on IMWA

Jarrad Bolton reflects on IMWA. Jarrad has come along way and only been under our guidance since the middle of the year!! Plenty more PB's on the horizon for this young man. Well done buddy!!

Tuesday morning was a good morning for me as i was heading home ready to compete in my first Ironman, this week was very relaxing with a few massages, sauna and chilling at home. Can't forget the last few dreaded training sessions. Before I knew it, it was friday the last day to check in!!! Driving from Margaret River to Busselton late friday afternoon thinking I would have a nice relaxing Saturday morning check- in and training session with all the GKE athletes. 

When driving to Busselton, a mate rang to ask weather I was heading to the athletes dinner? He also asked have I checked in, thinking nothing of it as I read the program list for the days leading to it and read that I could check- in and compulsory bike racking saturday... DIDN'T see the ironkids bit. Panic arose and I started freaking out, I rushed off to check in arrived at 5.30pm!!! They wouldn't let me in, didn't know what to do so I called Captain Awesome. Thinking it was Telstra he didn't answer.. I managed to convince the volunteer to let me race, he informed me that i must come back the following day. 

Saturday morning we all gathered around for a bike, run, swim.. I was awarded the dreaded turkey "George". Completing the training session, feeling a little happier that I would be able to compete Sunday. I decided to head over to the checkin where I received my race bag and entry tag, (so relived)I could go home and finally pack my bags and get ready for IMWA. 

Sunday morning, having the usual breakfast with the added toast, I made my way down to the bike racks. To the surprise of Guy, I was in and ready to race. Seeing a few familiar faces made me a little more relaxed. Suncream and wetsuit on, I was ready and making my way down to the start line. I stepped into the pen and watched the pros leave, they had gone and this was it, it was the "Age Groupers" turn... A fellow age grouper came up to me and asked "do we swim around the white thing in the ocean" my reply was simple, "i have no idea"! It looked so much further then the end of the jetty. After this I began to freak thinking there is no way I am going to swim all the way and live to tell the story, I began to walk towards the jetty ready to pull out when Brad, found me.. (Thanks Brad) We chatting for what seemed like forever then gun finally went off. 

Swim: I hit the water running knowing that I have done the training with some of the best in the business, I got into an early rhythm following someones feet! I also had someone on my feet for most of the way out scratching at my feet each stroke, I began to get really frustrated . I picked up the speed a little and managed to shake him off, I found a nice rhythm again and was swimming comfortably, turning both the bouys with no trouble at all I was on the home straight, sticking on someones feet for the journey home. I suffered two bad cramps and had to stop for a short time, but I came out of the water and into transition thinking that wasn't so bad. Having everything done for me in T1 I left feeling relaxed and ready to have a good bike... 

Bike: Heading out of the T1 change rooms I managed to find Brad a fellow GKE athlete, I was to stick with him and use his power, we left out onto the road and as always I went to hard, feeling a little out of breathe I managed to settle down after crossing the first bridge on the way to taurt drive. The ride was a little out of my comfort zone but I wanted to stick with Brad as long as I could, having completed the first lap still only 12M or one place behind Brad we powered onto the next lap. Sticking with brad for another 50kms until began to loose him finding it hard to catch him again! I opted to sit behind another strong rider dropping 3km/hr average over the last 30 to 40 kms. coming into T2 I never felt so happy to see a crowd.

Run: Leaving the transition area I could barely run, it felt like I was going so slow, but I was a little over paced. I completed the first lap feeling comfortable and was slightly into a rhythm. Turning around at the east end on the 2nd lap I began to hit the wall, I managed to run past the family where I shouted " this is Fu*****" feeling the pinch a little earlier then I was hoping. After seeing coach just before the next aid station he shouted "walk the aid stations" I can't express how grateful I was to hear those 4 words. Another 2 laps past before a fellow competitor caught me (Andrea Hopkin), I was so happy to see her and have someone to run with, the last 3 aid stations were all that was between me and the finish line. Hoppy and I were determined to get through the pain and to the finish line. We walked each station and each time we began to run it hurt more and more. Following the last aid station about 1km to go I said to Hoppy, "Iwould like to go under 11hrs", so I put in one final effort and crossed the line with a big jump and a fist pump. Waiting at the line for Andrea to finish in style also, nothing could beat the moment of watching a true champion cross the line. 

Kate Luckin Reports on IMWA

Our Little Kate Luckin had great day at IMWA and has been bouncing off the walls every since!! Well Done Kate!! (Kate's words below!!!)

First, I want to thank my sponsors….ummm….oh….ahhh… I have none! Haha That’s right! (Do Mum and Dad count?! They spend a lot of moolah on me!)

Okay, okay…

Let’s start by saying that this blog isn’t just about December the 7^th 2014. This has been a very long time coming – since my first triathlon years ago I have dreamt of doing an ironman. This journey has been a crazy rollercoaster of which I never hope to hop off. 

I believe that all ironman athletes out there on the day have a story – no matter how big or small, we have all overcome something in our lives and or had a driving force to complete such a gruelling event. It is true when people say “Ironman is a drug”. It has certainly been mine. It’s no secret I have had some tough times, but my incredible family and training has pulled me through. It has saved my sanity and been a release when things get hard. Knowing what it is like being unable to train has only made me appreciate my body and triathlon more. Instead of giving up or turning to other sources, I trained more and can honestly say that right now; I have never loved my body, my mind or triathlons more. 

Race week was perfect. My version of heaven. I spent the week being super organised with bike/bags/nutrition etc packed a week early. Having little events like ‘ironman breakfasts’ with squads gave me a little boost and I was feeling quietly confident and ready. Wednesday came around and a car trip with the company of Claudia (Kylie Kwong) along with some Katy Perry, The Script and Coldplay was cranking. Swims and rides with Tan and the GK crew in Busselton made me feel like I had been let out of jail. I specifically remember my Thursday ride with Tania De Abreu where we just couldn’t help but smile for the whole hour. The family, Andy and Dan soon joined me Saturday night. They placed their bets on my times (Thanks Armando for the 12:30 bet…), gave me some great advice and pumped me up. Claud had done my hair, Lisa and Mark had given me some great advice and Mum and Dad were…still in shock I was doing this whole thing I think! (Poor them – I did keep it a secret for a while)

Race morning. I thought there would be tears. Instead, I was quite calm – very emotional inside but calm. Last good luck hugs from every body and I went with Tania to join the 1898 other athletes. A last hug from Tan and that gun went off. 

Wow. I am doing it. I smiled in the water. Don’t do that. You only eat seawater and it’s not fun. 15 minutes later I realised Tan and I were swimming side by side – a quick “Hi Tan….Bye Tan” she was off. Of course I was kicked, lost my googles and swim cap, swam off course (somehow I missed that big thing called a huge jetty) etc – true Kate style but I was so content out there! Out of the water I saw a 1:09 on the watch – woops slower than I thought but that’s okay! 1/3 down! T1 I found Courtney who helped me with a smooth transition.

Off I ran down the sexy red carpet (Lisa had to yell to slow down and remember to get my bike – Thanks Lisa!) to my sexy baby Chrissie – I grabbed her and said “Chrissie – ready for the ride of your life?” 180km never felt so good. My family, Dan, Rob and Ash (surprise!) were at all the turn arounds which really broke it down for me. I did get a little confused where the frick I was with all the turn arounds! Nutrition went down a treat – Damn Kylie Kwong (Claudia) can make good vegemite sandwiches. I was feeling great. Every athlete out there that passed me or I passed smiled and chatted. 150km in and the last turn around – I yelled to the crew “30 (insert @$#%*)km to go! That’s nothing!”. I felt good and judging by what I had seen established I was coming second in my age group. I thought of the marathon ahead…ease up Kate. Hold back. I found a comfy 30km/hr and sat on it the way in. I smiled  the whole time…this was going better than I could’ve dreamed. 

Off the bike – wow – hello legs. Another smooth transition thanks to Felicity and I was on the run course before I knew it. My core supporters on the day – Lisa, Mark, Andy, Dad, Mum, Dan, Rob, Ash, Ty, Claud, Jace and Armando. They got me through. Their support out there was amazing. I just felt incredible. I quickly found my happy pace and stuck to it. Who likes Maths? “Just get it done. You are an ironman.”  Takes 5 seconds to think. That’s all I thought for the first 30km. That’s 2160 times I thought that and that only. The legs ticked over and I was running comfortably. I have never run a marathon. I never let this cross my mind. I was feeling good. That’s all that mattered. Aid station after aid station…water, ice, coke, gel, electrolytes. Just get it done. The crowd was incredible. Seeing the likes of Adam, Ruth and Tan out there lifted me. A little bum tap and “go Beyonce butt” from Tan was great. 21km. 35km. 30km. I think I shocked every one with how comfortable and well I was going. I could feel Lisa and Mark were proud, and that meant a lot. 12km left. I yelled “12 (@^#$#%) kms!!!! To Kate and Guy and I was still running. I knew from the transition and scouting on the run I was second. I also knew first place had a Kona spot. I couldn’t comprehend it. Was Kona mine to take? The thoughts made me emotional. More maths…”KONA” for 12kms. That’s another 2160 times it went throw my mind. 

I couldn’t have loved the lady who gave me that sweet 4^th wrist band more. One last high five to Lisa, mark, Andy and Dan – I saw Lisa had tears in her eyes and I started to loose it. The finish chute was mine. I had run a whole marathon. I had swam my whole 3.8kms. I had ridden my 180kms. I had held my emotions together so well. I was 99% sure that Kona spot was mine. Down the chute I high fived every kid. I hugged Simon. I found Rob and Ash and hugged them. My family…the biggest, happiest hugs possible. Pete Murray told me I was an Ironman and I crossed that sweet finish line to give him a huge hug too! So many emotions my little 23 year old self can handle and I felt I was going to explode. I grabbed the volunteer for a photo for some reason and smiled my way through the finish area. I didn’t care about Mince Chow Mein they were serving (really??) I just wanted my family and friends. More hugs, more tears. I stayed standing to see many friends come down the line and the beautiful Tan become an Ironman – you go girl! First place in my age group – Cammie, told me she had a Kona spot, so it would be mine. Confirmation. Joy. Overwhelming. I still can’t explain that feeling – euphoric. I just couldn’t stop smiling.

I can honestly say I have never been more proud of myself. It wasn’t just a race to me. It was setting a goal. A dream – and not giving up. I achieved many things that day – my first marathon. My first Ironman. Kona. KONA. KONA. I have to repeat that because it just isn’t real yet. I am proud of my journey and what I have achieved. There was nothing but hard work, sweat, tears, fails…and triumphs. Getting back up. Going again. Never stopping. That is just who I am and what I do. I do this to see what I am made of and to push myself and discover myself day to day.

I wouldn’t have been able to do this without these incredible people;     

The crew at GK Endurance – both athletes and coaches for incredible support and guidance!

BK and EFS for the swims and support 

Every one at work – Brad, Chris and Megs for race wheels, use of facilities and support – love that place!           

Dani, Bronnie, Nikki, Poppie, Brooke, Tessa - for being my girls and talking non – triathlon to me J

Ruth and Maz – Ruth, you were my first riding buddy! Whilst you turn into Ruthless with a needle for treatment and Pilates I do love you 

Dan – you have put up with so much and your support is just incredible! THANK YOU for every thing that you do for me – it means the world 

Adam Mullens, Tania de Abreu for being my training friends and simply being there for me – you support and guidance has been essential on this journey and to share this with you is unbelievable. Thank you Ty, Claud and Armando for your help (thanks Ty for the make up and Claud for the hair and drunken times)

Rob – Where do I begin? The man who started it all. Words will never be enough for what you have done. Thank you for pushing me to my limits in training and supporting me through every step

Mum, Dad, Lisa, Mark and Andy – I love you. I couldn’t imagine the stress I put you through having a sick relative try to complete a gruelling day. Lisa and Mark - you are my inspirations. I mean it when I say I did that marathon because you did. My family have picked me up every time I have fallen xxx

Now let’s see what this little Luckin is made of. Let’s get this body ready and BRING ON KONA!

Ironman Western Australia

WOW What a great day our team had.

We are very lucky to have such a great group of people training and racing with us.
It was great to see nearly all of our athletes out on course, you guys really rocked it.
It;s your positive attitudes and smiling faces that make the difference (even if you didn't want to smile at times)

For our first timers, Congratulations on finishing your first Ironman. May there be plenty more on your horizon! :)

Over the next week or so, we'll be featuring our athletes race reports on our website/blog.
Stay tuned for the juicy details.

Congratulations, you did yourself's and us Proud!!

GK

Lisa Luckin's Kona Report!!!

Our little Lisa Luckin reports on her Kona Outing. A talented athlete, A twin (sorry Lisa we all know Mark), A designer, A Cat lover (that's you Andy) a Boxer owner and an awesome Human!!!


My journey for Kona started after qualifying from Mandurah 70.3. A half distance race. I had not completed an Ironman. 4 weeks later I took part in my first ironman, Busselton Ironman where I mentally reassured myself I had earned my spot with a time of 10.00.56.
I was consumed in Ironman yes, but tried to limit this only during the times of my training sessions. 
Work, home life, family, Henry all took their priorities and I tried not to let this completely consume me as I believe balance is important. 
I am a first time Kona qualifier and 1 time Ironman finisher. I wanted to enjoy the journey and the ride. It was a roller coaster but I did exactly that.


Race day started like all others. I woke, got dressed and ate breakfast rather quickly. We drove down to the start but struggled to find a park. I jumped out the car with mum and Kate and grabbed all bags and rushed off leaving Dad and Andy to park. As we reached the body marking I checked my bags for my special needs. I laughed to myself as I grabbed the snorkels bag that was in the car from yesterday. Could be useful for the swim I guess?!

I met with twinny in transition before finding the GKE crew and finally the family. I was extremely nervous at this stage. As my eyes filled with nervous and excited tears I got my good luck kisses from everyone and I was off.

Being with fellow GKE athlete Andrea from the start of the race significantly calmed my nerves. We entered the water and I headed straight for the front. I was never going to lead but desperately wanted some fast toes right from the start! Elbows and glares were dished out by the dozen. I cast my eye to soak up the unfriendly and intense atmosphere but I wasn't letting this intimidate me.
Without warning the cannon fired! We were off and this over whelming feeling came across me. The race I had been waiting and training for almost 10months had started! I swam hard. Super hard and got on the front pack of girls. It seemed to split into two groups, side by side but split  down the middle. I was racing the Ironman World Championships.
The Swim was surprisingly rough. It didn't take long before we caught the slower men who started 10mins before us. Once we made the turn around at the boat there were men everywhere. This really split the group and made it difficult to navigate to the finish, losing toes, pace and constantly sighting.
Im not sure why everyone seemed to swim wide back into the pier but I took a direct line and stumbled up the steps to transition.

I ran as fast as I could into transition. A volunteer grabbed me and lead me into the tent. "Lisa" she said. Confused I looked up. "Hi! I checked you in yesterday"! And to my surprise she had! I ran to my bike pushing my way past others taking their time. I reached my bike a little deflated as she was easy to spot with the surrounding bikes having already left transition. This made me a little more determined to get moving!
Out I ran, mounted my bike and had a glanced at the deep support that seemed to last forever. There were 100's of people. I don't know why I was so surprised!
A fellow athlete Janine Willis passed me and I immediately decided to follow her pace through town. 
As we turned onto the Queen K I sighted Andy and my family for the first time before disappearing back into town for a quick loop then back onto the Queen K.
Once I passed supporters again I smiled to myself and just thought this was insane! I looked ahead and saw the long trail of athletes all fighting for their spot in the race, looking like ants in the distance.

Approx. 30kms in a large pack formed right around me. It was manic. Then right in front of me a male cut in front of a young female and they both came crashing down. Like a car crash I could not look away after dodging the incident and bike pieces that scattered across the road.
A short time after I was introduced to Madame Pele. I opened my big mouth in an interview prior to race day. 'It’s not windy at all' I said. And the truth is it had not been the 10days or so prior to race day. 
Everyone told me, this is how the day should be. Hard, hot, humid, windy. You want it to be tough. Its meant to be hard. With this in mind the next pedal I took the heads winds blew. Oh my lord they blew. At one stage I think I could have run faster. But this somewhat made me just laugh and get on with it.

The climb to Hawi I was confident. Until one particular gust blew me from the far right of the road over to the center lines. I know im light weight but I couldn't believe that just happened.
I gripped my bars so tight I think I could have crushed the carbon. Once I reached the turnaround I was already intimidated by discomfort on athlete’s faces that were already on their decent but there was no avoiding it. I watched the Mexican wave effect of cyclists in front of me being blown all over the course and prepared for it as it hit me. I looked out to the ocean for white caps as Andy had told me. It looked like the ocean was snowing! I sat up and descended slowly. I was intimidated by the decent with the cross winds. I snailed it but I wanted to make it off the bike in one piece. A decision I regret now as I know this is where I lost soo much time but one I told myself I would comfortable with that decision.

Back onto the Queen K I felt lonely. It was hot. The long trail had petered out, the head winds did not ease and I was desperately longing for the sight of the airport. It felt like it never came!
Finally I made it to transition and parted ways with my bike knowing it would be a good two weeks until i even contemplated riding her again! 

I cannot believe the support the volunteers provided on this day. They were outstanding. Amazing in the transition tents, realising the importance of your race and did anything and everything to assist. One drew my attention to the burns on my lower my back, my tramp stamp of Kona as she applied more sun screen on me.

I ran out of transition feeling somewhat fresh and legs not trashed. It felt like forever until I saw Andy who through some much needed words of encouragement before letting me know Mum, Dad and Kate were just up the road. It’s always great seeing them. 
Through Alii I had mixed feelings. My body felt good, muscles not too sore but my stomach soon turned. I tried to ignore but with the vivid memory of the male runner finishing his race with number two's present down his legs I vowed not to make the same mistake and finally stopped at the aid station. A little convincing from Andy also helped as i let him know my stomach was not too good! Nothing, so I continued on. I could not shake this feeling of an upset stomach. 
I reached Palani and the man on the mike referred to me as the chick with the big smile and cheeks. Of course I ran up here to quick but couldn't dare fade in front of the crowd so kept going. Hello Queen K again. Support from Andy was awesome out on the run. I stopped at 6 aide stations before deciding the last one would be at the entrance to the energy lab. It rained lightly as i entered the Lab. I ran through and started to feel good. Finally I ran like I felt like I should have. Like how I had been training and what I felt like my body and months of hard work deserved.

Support from Wes, Jono and Andy drove me home as I motored past others struggling. Finally I was counting down the final few km's occasionally converting km’s to miles as the number was less and made me feel better. I could smell the finish line and at this stage was running like a fat boy runs for cake.
I ran too fast for my own legs down Palini. The final stretch back to Alii never ended but finally it was there.
The crowds grew in numbers the closer you got and deeper and deeper. It was AWESOME!
Hi-Fives to my Mum, Dad and Kate and most importantly I was Andy down the line also.
I don't remember crying as I usually do but I concentrated so hard to hear the words 'You are an Ironman' after zoning out in Busselton and never hearing them.

I crossed the line and couldn't slow down. I was power walking and my catchers couldn't keep up until finally I just let go and slowed down. I was finished.

I was in and out of the athlete area after the race. I searched for the area to get your medal. I could barely stand let alone walk. My legs ached. I rushed out to desperately find Andy and the family... then i cried.

10.48.25.
15th Female 25-29 AG.
88th Female

I pulled up surprisingly well after race day. Of course I was sore, I had chafe that made me walk like I had a nappy on, I will part ways with my big toe nail, I have burns on my back that are Kona stamped to match my twin and tan lines of a triple choc chocolate bar. I was disappointed I was not sorer! But I think my body had let go and I was very sick for a week. I didn't need to be strong anymore and was just run down!

As ungrateful as this may sound, my honest feeling, Kona has left me feeling empty. I trained, like all others, for months. Dedicated to the sport, my program. I hardly missed a session and if I did it was for a legit reason. Most of my sessions were solo. I felt good. Fast. Fit. Confident.
I was, at the time, pleased with my race. Seriously, I just finished the Ironman World Championships! But then, you have time to think, assess and look back on the day. I wish I rode faster. I should have been more confident on the decent and takes for me, a risk. I wish my guts didn't hate me on the run. I wish i didn't stop at the toilets as sit was for nothing anyway. I know I am capable of more and I feel my result no way near reflected the hard work and all I sacrificed for this one day. Kona stole my happiness.
Then I told myself what I tell others. It’s just a race. I'm not changing anyone's life. This was for my own satisfaction and that's exactly how I should remember this relentless, brutal and unforgiving day!

I raced Kona. And it was awesome to race this with my twin, Mark. What an experience! I did not have the fastest splits, break records or podium but I lived the dream many will never achieve and it will stay just that, a dream. I earned my spot at Kona, I am thankful for that life experience. Nothing will ever compare. I know look back at my results and I am proud.

It’s time now for me. My family and most importantly Fiancé. 
It has now been two weeks since race day. I have not done any more than run 150m with my boxer Henry. I am a little lost. A little bored. I go to bed and don't set the alarm for 4.40am. But I still wake up then! 
I wore heels, and have done for 4 days straight. I had my hair done and spent time in the morning actually doing it before work! I feel like a girl! 

I have plans to race next year. Big plans! But for now it’s time to enjoy life, appreciate what I have and live each day as it comes.

Andrea Hopkin Reports on Kona and her trip away!!

Andrea reports below on her recent success In Kona. it didn't come without pain and sacrifice, But Andrea seems to find Immense joy in immense pain!! (thats why we love her) Well done!!!

Kona 2014

I did get around to writing a race report for Worlds 70.3 but time went so quick and now it's already over one week post Kona so here's my Kona report instead. It might be a tad long as it also includes my lead up. Everything about this trip surpassed my expectations!

PRE-RACE

I was extremely fortunate in my preparation for Kona for a number of reasons. Prior to leaving for 70.3 Worlds I was working part time for a few weeks, which didn't necessarily mean more time for training but it did allow more time for recovery and getting myself organised. It also allowed for more flexibility depending on the weather. Then post 70.3 Worlds I made my way to Boise, Idaho to stay with my coach for two weeks. It was very kind of Kate and Guy to invite me in to their home following a constant flow of visitors this summer. Although, I think once they found out I was taking them up on their offer they looked for an "out" and entered Lake Tahoe IM. The extremes people go to, to get away from me!! So they were only around for a few days but they set me up well with their awesome friends about town and I had some great training partners for my long rides and swam with a squad at the local Y. Boise was a great training ground. Awesome trails, super hot and dry. After two weeks there I was on my way to Kona to acclimatise and train for another 3 weeks pre-race. 

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Boise riding

For a relative "newbie" to triathlon scene I am in awe of the stars of the sport and getting to the island early a lot of pros were already there. It was inspiring and motivating seeing the likes of Rinny, Jodie Swallow, Liz Blatchford, Craig Alexander to name a few out training and around town. I tried accumulating some good selfies with some of the stars. I was fortunate to have some great people to train with here too during this time and talk about the race and share advice, including friend Kim, thanks!

Selfie with one of my favourite Pros who I found out on the bike (oh yeah and my coach lucky me) ;-)

It was great to see the island before the influx of lycra cad bodies and take some time tour around and also take the opportunity for some quiet time and get my coffee without having to stand in a line for 30mins. I took advantage of the beautiful sunsets and would go to the beach to sit and watch. They never get boring.

Coffee art – Before influx and during influx

RACE WEEK

The race week had a number of events that I attended. Beginning with the parade of nations, the Aussies sure did stand out. I love that we had team kits, a great opportunity to race and be proud to be Australian. Then was the expo, the undie run, a brilliant Witsup brunch listening to a wealth of knowledge from some great athletes , a visit or two to the coffee boat and a CEEPO function to see the launch of the 2015 bikes and meet other CEEPO athletes. Pretty much just a good fun week with a great bunch of people.

Parade of Nations #GKEndurance and Janine

I have never felt so much anxiety leading in to a race though. Every morning for a week I would wake up with anxiety and sick feeling. That worked for me and against me in some ways as I quite like working under stress.

In the three weeks there before the race I covered most of the course so knew to an extent what I was in for however whilst out riding didn't get to experience the famous winds I had heard everyone talking about. As race day approached I heard some people talking about the wind picking up and how they had seen people getting off to walk. I started getting worried as I only had an 808 front wheel.  CEEPO though came to the rescue and loaned me a 58 front Profile Design wheel for the day. Turns it that was probably the best change I could have made with the race day winds!!

With Tanaka NOBUYUKI owner of CEEPO Triathlon Bikes

RACE DAY

When it comes to the race itself it's been said over and over it was the hardest year in about 15 years. A choppy swim, the heat, the humidity and some serious winds on the bike which saw some people blown off! I am happy that these were the conditions on race day. It's Kona, it's the World Champs. It's supposed to be hard. Call me weird, or whatever you want, but I loved every painful moment of it!!! I got to experience Kona at its “best”. 

I had three goals for race day:

1. To finish - always number 1 goal
2. Get in before sunset
3. To finish in 10hrs something, as low as possible. 

My race:
As always I start my swim off to the left to try avoid getting stuck in the middle. My main aim at the start is to keep my breathing under control,  not hyperventilate and find my rhythm. It was congested out there, but nowhere near as bad as starting with 2000 people. I found a little space on the way out and for once found feet to swim on that I felt was a good pace. I had no idea how I was going. I heard it was a slow swim in Kona so anything less than 1:20 and I was going to be happy. From the turn around the current seemed to push you sideways in toward shore so I found myself on the inside line, in among a lot of people which I don't particularly like but just focused on staying calm. I managed to stay on one girls’ feet for the majority of this return leg. As I exited the water looked at my watch and saw my time was around 1hr 10mins so was happy with this. 

T1 was smooth, with already having my shoes clipped on my bike, only had to strip my swim-skin and throw some nutrition in my back pockets. 

I found myself out on the bike at the same time as Amy who I knew from 70.3 worlds, (the winner of our age group in the end). I knew she was a great athlete and if I could keep her in sight I was going okay. The first out and back section of the bike course was quite congested and we spent a lot of time passing people and some back and forth of positions. We hit the Queen K and I still had Amy in sight, and another girl Sonja (eventual 2nd place) also joined in the mix. Amy pulled away with Sonja following not long after. I am well aware of the need to race my own race so did not try and go with them knowing the effort I was already expending felt enough at that point. I don’t work to power or heart rate, I was just going on good old fashioned perceived effort!

Nutrition wise we had spoken that I was to aim for minimum one bottle per hour. During training, even back in the cold of Melbourne I was supposed to practice this, and in the lead up Kate again reminded me of the importance of this. I don't sweat much when not in humid conditions and in Melbourne Ironman had just over 4 bottles, so Kona had to be a different story. I got through my first bottle within the first 30mins and 2nd within the hour. Well on target! (Turns out I think I had 10-12 bottles on the bike in the end!!) I didn’t particularly like the flavour of the on course Power Perform so swapped to Coke quite early on. I made the turn towards Hawi and felt reasonable good on the climb up passing quite a few people. 

When I had been out riding with a friend, Kim, earlier that week she had given some advice in terms of how I was feeling when I made that turn back on to the Queen K. After descending Hawi, despite the winds, it was great fun. I managed to hit 67km/hr albeit slightly sideways at times. I tucked as aero as possible and pedalled hard. I felt I descended well passing many people along this stretch too. I turned back on to the Queen K and felt great - a good sign and a confidence boost from what Kim had told me. Coming back from Hawi somewhere I came across Sonja again and we had some more changing of positions. Near Waikoloa we had a tailwind for a short time but suddenly the wind swung to a strong headwind, which would remain all the way back to town. Sonja pulled away again in the last 15km or so and again I couldn’t go with her. It was tough going for the last section although my legs felt good coming off the bike and knew I had taken in more than enough nutrition, which definitely gave me a mental boost in preparation for the run ahead.

T2 was smooth. Volunteers were great. I think I had 5 ladies helping me put everything on - Sunscreen, socks, shoes, race belt! Go! It was a bit of a blur!!

My plan on the run was to go out between 4:50-5min/km and no faster. I have a tendency to run out too hard. I was committed to staying to this plan. Around the 5km mark I saw Kate and Guy. Kate told me I was sitting in 5^th, and although this was great news, my response was that I didn't care where I came, I just wanted to finish. But in the background in my mind the competitive side kicked in a bit, I didn’t want to lose any placings as this excited me to come to Kona and place in the top 5 in my age category. The first 16km I stuck exactly to our pacing plan, however was starting to think it might be a bit ambitious to stay at this pace the whole way. Once I hit the Queen K around the 22km mark I started walking for a very short time at the aid stations to make sure I was getting my nutrition in so my pace dropped from here on. Prior to entering the energy lab I had overtaken the girl I knew had been in 4th but there had been some other girls come past and I was unsure of their category so had no idea where I was placed now. Still the goal was to get to that finish line and I knew that I was feeling good enough to also be in well before sun set – goal number 2.

In to and out of the energy lab I didn’t find it to be the dark place everyone talks about. I actually came out feeling better than I went in. Most likely due to a much needed toilet stop that I had avoided for the previous few km’s. My split coming out was only slightly slower than going in and that included the quick toilet stop. I draw the line somewhere!! I felt good for the next 3km or so but with about 7km to go when the crowds are there again I was starting to feel a bit broken, had a moment of wanting to cry when I saw some people I knew. Andy and @Ironchicks gave a great boost of support though! Just after this I saw Kate, Guy and co. too. Kate provided me some great motivation in that final 6km during which I stopped walking the aid stations and just kept running! The finish chute when I arrived was amazing and it was great that my mum could be there to experience it too!

Final result

Swim 1:10:43; Bike 5:24:02; Run 3:44:35 Total 10:24:54 

4th Female 35-39yrs.

In the week leading up to the World Champs I attended a brunch hosted by Witsup and was lucky to listen to a great panel of female athletes. One of those women, Siri Lindley spoke about being grateful. I like that word. I am grateful for so many things the last 7 weeks including the people I’ve met, the places I’ve visited and the experiences I’ve had. Too many to mention here, this is long enough already!! But after hearing of circumstances preventing people from making it to the start line after qualifying or DNF's in the race itself for whatever reason I am so grateful for the opportunity to have raced, and to have made it to both the start line and the finish line, and experience Kona. I’m lucky to be able to do what I love doing. And then as a bonus to everything I’ve had two well executed races and two 4th places at my first lot of World Champs and bought home a wooden bowl in the process. 

But lastly and most importantly I'm grateful to all the people who have helped and supported me along the way! Triathlon is not an individual sport. Far from it. Thank you!!

Mark Luckin's KONA race report

Have a read of Mark's Kona race report, Very entertaining!
Until the next one Mark!!!

I don't know how I feel about what I've written but have a read - race report in status form, yep it's long too.

Iron distance racing is disgusting.

Ultimately, honestly, I could succinctly summarise my race in the following few sentences.

I woke up in a shitty single bed without my usual greeting by Geeves my personal butler (Geeves may or may not exist). I had a boring breakfast of 2 bananas, an energy bar, some beet root juice (urgh) mixed with water and electrolytes. Then I literally went about lubing myself up for the day. After checking in, I was lubed up again....by another man (thanks Guy), sunscreened and fitted into a very fashionable orange onsie. I then went about having the shit kicked out of me and survived a number of attempted drownings for an hour, was burnt to an absolute crisp on the bike, pissed myself - a number of times, had sunscreen applied over my sunburn, sought some pretty nasty blisters about 15k in on the run, pissed my self again then passed out at the finish line. Needless to say this isn't the race report I ran with, for the incredible girl I just spent a week in LA with....

Post race I have bruising all up my back, my hips are fecked, my knees have been inflamed for days, I have the WORST tan lines and peeling and the big toe is about to loose a toe nail - goodbye old friend. But, nothing beats that finish line feeling so I might elaborate a little more for those interested.

Just about everyone knows by now but for the curious minded or unfamiliar, I dislocated my shoulder 14 weeks ago. Deciding that wasn't enough - I did it again exactly a week later. I tore my labrum and threw a fracture in there for good measure. I went through the conclusion of a long term relationship just shortly before this and ultimately through a pretty rough patch. Let's get honest - I drunk for a number of days straight post break up, trained sporadically, moved house, bluffed my way through some more Uni assignments - in summary going through a pretty difficult period in my 25 years of existence so far. It's no sympathy story but I owe it to a lot of people who got me to Kona.

But hey, that's later. I think reverting back to the old pisstake that are my race reports is in order. The week leading up was intense. Lisa and I were the first two fraternal twins in history racing the Hawaiian Ironman World Champs and actually had some interviews etc during the week. It was cool. I had a terrible sleep Thursday night after (but not due to) what I called the "date of my life" on Thursday afternoon (more also). Luckily after a good chat to Guy I was set Friday night and managed some good hours - dreaming of swimming down Pottsy, dropping bombs on Kienle on the bike and out splitting Frodo 30/s a k in the energy lab. Actually I'm pretty sure I dreamt about the new Bratz Dolls dream house coming out soon - it's going to be dope.

Numbering although a little laborious was complete with no hustle and my bike was set up easily. Although I still can't believe Kienle got so pissed at me for just trying to borrow his race wheels.... Lisa Cat (twinny) and I met with coaches, fam pre race where DISASTER ONE OCCURRED!!!! "Ok Guy thanks for lubing me up buddy especially in my special area (my elbow), now zip up my new bad-ass orange Blue70 swim skin and let's dance". The zip got caught and I PANICKED TO THE MAX. After managing to rip the skin from my tiny man hands Guy fixed the bad boy, calmed me down with a man slap and sent me to the swim start.

F*ck me I thought 70.3 Worlds was bad. The next hour and two minutes after the cannon went I got the shit kicked out of me. No not literally, I had an orange swim skin on me that would have been disgusting but geebers, these guys were full on. However no shoulder dislocation so hey I was happy to get through with a reasonably respectable time.

After a quick T1 I mounted Chrissie (again my bike not some innocent spectator) and boarded the Hawi express doing my best to hang on. All was going swimmingly (perhaps that should have been a pun for the swim) until about an hour and a half in and the fickle bitch that is Madame Pele decided to flex her strong lady muscles and throw a NASTY head wind into our face. I suffered and lost a lot of time struggling to keep the speed and power output of an 80 year of leg-less senior citizen who had never ridden a bike in her entire life. In summary power was low, speed was lower, my back was sore and seizing up, I needed to pee a lot and I was unfairly angry at all these young hooligans riding - for no reason. I made the turn around to the cheers of "go Steve you're the man!! Do it for your son Billy!!" Couldn't believe they got my name and personal circumstances wrong (and definitely weren't cheering for anyone else) but I used it anyway.

The descent from Hawi was rough with some decent cross winds knocking even my decent frame around. Then boom the head wind hit us again all the way back. To be honest it was a relief to hear later in the day that the winds were the worst they had been in a number of years. I had a little mechanical on the way back into town with my chain jumping off the smallest ring on the back cassette and getting caught against my frame but I McGyvered the shit out of that and got back going again.

Into T2 with a witty comment to a volunteer and I was of for some more PAIN. Luckily the run legs were there and my back pain disappeared so I set of at my targeted first half of the marathon race pace. I was pretty happy with myself committing to this so I gave myself three high fives. It was awesome. So I high fived about those high fives.

After working my way through the barrage that was the self served high fives I ran upon my coach Guysington who was waiting a couple of k up the road. We had a little banter at first that actually really served me well. I told him I he looked like shit, he told me Lisa was going to smash me and despite not making the bike cut off time Sister Madonna was still going to do a better overall time than me. Business as usual.

I sat in and ran a controlled, rather dashing, stylised pace up until the climb up Palani where I toned things down for the climb. I found a great dude to run with as well and we worked well together, sharing stories, excess ice (although funnily enough he kept refusing the ice I was storing down the from of my pants - what's with that??) and *insert third witty comment here*.

We ran a very controlled pace up Palini where more people incorrectly cheered for me using the wrong name/s - no biggie. Out onto the Queen K and I was stoked with how I was feeling - well, considering. Finally I reached the energy lab where we actually got a quick sprinkle of rain - it was am odd day!! "Ok" I thought to myself "once we get to the bottom and turn around it's go time Lucky".

I launched operation "hospitalise Lucky" just under 30k in. I ran OUT of the energy lab faster than I'd ran in (up hill FYI) and hit it down the Queen K. Once I hit the area where spectators were allowed again I had about 7k to go and I was hitting 4:30's - and holding. Guy met up with me and turned into a dude I hadn't seen before. It was fucking awesome. He got me through those last 7k pushing pushing pushing me (not literally‪#‎nocheating‬) and making sure I still hit every aid station. I made up a lot of time and places in the last section.

I've never gone that deep and have actually never ran so far with my eyes closed for the majority of the time. "JUST LET THE MACHINE DO THE WORK, GO ON HOLIDAY UP THERE LUCKY, COME ON!!" Actually gives me goose bumps thinking of that. Guy was a legend.

Hrm bit serious. Joke time. Why is 6 afraid of 7? Because 7 is a serious 6 offender (kiwi accent may be required).

I bolted down Palani. Urgh that hurt. Finally I reached that finish chute. It is incredible how all of that pain suffering and regret can go away instantly. I blew Guy one last kiss *rooomannntic* and ducked into the chute. Thankfully I saw Mum Dad and Kate who true to their legendary form had a massive Australian flag held out for me.

Fuck that was emotional. I had a look back - with no one behind I took a couple of slow steps to the top of that finish line. Indescribable. I let out what I will assure were some manly yells, a decent fist pump and a quick gun show. I took two steps forward and old jelly legs withdrew the support they offered all day. I'm pretty sure my boy Macca was watching online at that point, screen shoted it and tweeted ‪#‎medtent‬ - made me laugh post race. It's actually crazy to push so hard that your legs just go. I hated falling there, I tried to get up but I actually couldn't. Then two lovely volunteers came over a hoisted me off. I assume their names were Mildred and Agnus with some of the old stories they were telling me to keep me awake, their story about the party that followed the construction of the first wheel as crazy - thanks gals. (But seriously the Kona volunteers were AMAZING).

I was ok after a while and went for the search for the coaches and fam. Finding Mum Dad Kate Guy Kate Andy and finally Lisa was awesome. Hugs and tears (my man tears) were shared and I had to have a decent lay down. Kona was done and I'd made it. As the "cool kids" are saying now - it was cray cray (a poor attempt to increase my reader demographic). Lisa raced incredibly and is SUCH a talented athlete.

Iron distance racing is a journey. No one has it easy and no one really suffers more than others (excluding the exceptional circumstances). Mine wasn't exceptional. I had some bad luck but I had a lot of good people pull me through and I am ever grateful to you all. Thank you.

Triathlon is done for me. I've given it some good years of my life and it has lead to some of the most amazing things happening in my life. I'll remain around the sport and domestically this season will be on the mic which I am REALLY looking forward too. I'll race again one day I imagine - the sport will do that but not for a number of years.

To everyone involved thank you. It's been a fun ride. I'm not going to individually call out every person here but you will get my personal thanks.

And hey triathletes - live a little, there is more. It (the sport) gives you so much but there is more. Don't forget your other buddies, partners, family, pets, really good tv shows and for the love of god fashion (hahaha compression socks and sandals not cool!!;)) Take from that what you want from a 25 year old Australian but don't aim for perfection in this sport, aim for success - realistic success, you'll be a much happier person. Have a drink (if you want), get off the forums and support your mates. Missing a session won't be the end of the world, the little man or woman upstairs will probably thank you just having a moment of normality.

Young persons - sure try to go pro, but not at the expense of everything else, because if it all falls apart you want to make sure you have something to go back on. The harsh reality is a lot of us won't live our dreams of racing in a pro field and even less surviving off the sport so have a plan a - z. Have a crack but don't commit everything that is near and dear to you. I tried and failed and god I am so happy I had a back up plan. As someone who puts way too much on his plate everyday - trust me, things have a way sometimes of not turning out as planned...be prepared

Be open for anything and see where life takes you, hey, sometimes you can end up in LA 24 hours after the Ironman World Championships with an amazing girl seriously considering the $6,500 QANTAS change of ticket fee so you can just stay there one day longer.....but maybe that's just me 

For the final time or Until the next time? Eagleeeee!!

xoxo Gossip Mark