To quote from Matt Dixon, “here is the headline news.” I love that line, don’t you because it clearly outlines what is important. So, here is the headline news on how to become a Yoda on race day!
1. Don’t try. Do.
“Do or do not… there is no try.” Or as triathletes like to say, “tri”
When you say that you will do something there is more determination and power behind that decision. When the inevitable obstacles (and they will) start to block your path you are determined, because you are prepared. You will do this. So you find ways over, under, around and through the obstacles. And that’s what you have to do most of the time to actually get things done. Smooth sailing with no problems at all is pretty rare. But race day isn’t the hard part. You have completed your Ironman, you have completed your training over months and months. That is the hard part. If you followed your plan and completed all (well, almost all) of your workouts that you have the foundation to go over every obstacle in your path on race day. Why, you ask, because you have already tackled them. Take time to evaluate your training log and see the consistency of your work; review your frustrations; celebrate the victories and soon the race day victory will be yours!
2. Overcome your fears.
“Fear is the path to the dark side.
Overcoming your fears is one of the most important things to improve yourself and grow. What is your fear on race day? More headline news: The Ironman day is about not “overcooking” the bike and staying on top of your hydration and fueling game. Period. Review section 1, because if you have put in the work then you are ready. Can you swim 2.4 miles in 2 hours and 20 min: that’s 3:30/100; Can you bike 112 in 8 hours and can you run 26.2 in 7 hours. You will have plenty of time, so relax and control what you can. Not overcooking the bike and drinking and eating. Simple, right. No fears. OK, so the fear of a flat tire: carry tools; visit your LBS to review how to change a flat; What else??? Keep it simple. Banish your fears and jump on in!
3. Your world is a reflection of you.
“You will find only what you bring in.”
You find in your world what you bring into your world. By observing the world around you can gain insights into yourself and what you may need to improve. So, we’ve chatted about time goals and key points, but how to make your race day a reflection of YOU, you ask; let me help. Make lists and lots of them. Read the athletes guide. Be prepared. Be very prepared and focus on what you can control. The Ironman “bubble”…put yourself in the bubble and let all the negative energy bounce off your bubble. You see, you are headed to have the most awesome day ever and nothing and no one can get you down. Bring in positive energy. Everyone worries about the swim, right-done, check. More headline news…you aren’t swimming with 1500 people, you are probably swimming with 4-5 max. Do the math, 1 on each side, 1 front and back and maybe one someone close. Everyone else is close, but not in your bubble. If the person on your right decides accidently, of course to hit your head then swim faster or slower. You are in control of your day.
So, I say bring on #14! It promises to be amazing and full of smiles, obstacles, and where else can I find a buffet of gourmet food at my disposal.
~Coach Sami Winter
Sami@iamwithoutlimits.com