A little Swine Flu Update

Upon returning from what was a successful training camp in beautiful Gainesville, FL, in which I managed to ride 5 hours for three consecutive days and invoke the wrath of my crotch, I found myself with a slightly compromised immunological system. Aside from the heavy training load, I also lost a little weight and with it, the ability to ward off viruses and other nasty bugs that thrive on weak defense systems. Many thanks go to the Black family for being wonderful hosts ( yet once again) during my stay there. My trips to FL would simply not be the same if not for them.

On Monday, I felt slightly off. On Tuesday, fever had set in and I was unable to move much. Leland picked me up from school ( I was already unable to drive) and took me home. My body temperature was 102F for a while, and I was diagnosed with swine flu.

I usually don’t get sick. When I do, I fight it off rather quickly, or at least, quicker than most. Not this time. Today, over a week after showing the symptoms, was the first day I am even sort of back to a normal routine. It was a nasty bug.

While I am upset to have lost these past 8 days of training which I really needed to do well at PumpkinMan, I am only left with the option of doing what I can, with what I have. I am not changing any plans regarding the event and plan on fighting as hard as I absolutely can come race day.

After that, I will most likely be racing the Chesapeake Man Ironman distance event on Sept. 26. Once again, another event I would have appreciated the extra 8 days of training, but another event I will fight as hard as I can, with what I have.

Onward.

Heart O' Dixie Triathlon

Despite a 31 mph ( ~ 50kph) crash at mile 23, I was able to win the 30th edition of this great Southern Classic.

I had a good swim, exiting the water first. I led for a few miles and then got caught and paced 20 meters back until a crack in the asphalt brought me down. I must know how to fall, because I have very little road rash to speak of. Even my awesome Kiwami Kameleon suit is not torn! I was bleeding a little on the run, but was able to hold 5:38's on the 7 mile run to win by 26 seconds.

Here is an article: http://www.meridianstar.com/sports/local_story_206234215.html?keyword=secondarystory

It is very exciting to add my name to the winner's list of such a classic event. Next on the schedule is PumpkinMan in Maine in Mid september. Prior to that I will have a 2 week training camp in Florida, where I have been for the past couple of days.

I am at my fiancee's parent's lovely home. It is absolutely awesome being here, and I could not ask for better future parent's in law.

Will post an update from the camp in a couple of days.