After only one mile of the 26.2 mile run of Ironman Vineman, I knew I was in trouble. I was already showing signs of dehydration as the temperature hovered in the mid 80’s. At that point I knew finishing the race would be a physical and a mental struggle. I wasn’t sure I was up for it.
After having such a great experience finishing my first full-distance triathlon at Ironman Arizona (IMAZ) last November, there was no question in my mind that I would do another one. Soon after the completion of IMAZ, I began planning my 2016 season and looking for an IM event. IM Vineman seemed to be the perfect race for me since I have relatives that live in Sonoma County. A trip to NoCal in July would allow me to get away from the Texas heat, visit family, and knock out my second IM. I set my goals for IM #2 higher than the first time around. This time I not only wanted to finish but I had aspirations of trimming at least 30 minutes off of my IMAZ finishing time. A challenge for sure given the course and temperature differences between IMAZ and IM Vineman. Continue reading