After racing a ton in 2013 and having accomplished my goal of competing at IM 70.3 Worlds, I was mentally and physically spent. I originally planned to race a full IM or 2 in November, but quite honestly I needed a break. That wasn't before I raced at IM 70.3 Augusta, which is a race I really enjoy. My friends Bill and Megan have a home 3 miles from the race start, so it is the perfect home stay and feels like a visit with a race included more than a race weekend. My dad came down for the event as he did last year and we made sure to go out for oysters Friday night. Augusta is great town to race in because the swim is down river, the bike takes you out into horse country and the run is really set up like a city half marathon where spectators can see you upwards of 8 times (good for my logistical dad who likes to plan his spots where he is going to cheer me on). Getting out of the water in my usual spot I connected with Mike Hermanson on the bike. Our friendship has grown through the IM circuit (he actually stayed with my sister in MI for a race weekend, while I was in NV), and we were able to ride the entire bike course together, taking "legal" turns, and pushing each other for 56 miles. I believe he PRed for watts. The run was hot and uneventful, but I was pleased with a new 70.3 PR, even though the swim is "short".
Three weeks later I ran the Detroit International Half Marathon on some lack luster training, as I was "turning it off" for the season. None-the-less, I ran my 2nd fastest half marathon ever,. and was happy to call it a season on that note.
Three weeks later I ran the Detroit International Half Marathon on some lack luster training, as I was "turning it off" for the season. None-the-less, I ran my 2nd fastest half marathon ever,. and was happy to call it a season on that note.