chrisfelgate

Sunday 4th Feb saw the second event in the JHB City Triseries. I wanted to try and top my 3rd place in the 1st event in the series, however, I knew would have my work cut out, as I went into the race quite tired based on the training I have been doing. As I am now entering a crucial time in my racing and training period, as I try and qualify for the London Olympics (cut off being 31st May), I cant afford to taper for too many races as I have to focus on the bugger events such as SA and All Africa Champs. I wont bore you with the normal, I swam like this, rode and ran like that to get 4th on the day, but rather focus on some key points in my race.

1. Am happy with the way am swimming- I always seem to be able to swim quite well in open water. One of the things people must realise is that open water and pool swimming are two very different things and is always advisable to try and train as much as possible in open water (at least once every 10 days).
2. Swim-bike physiological transition.. ie. the main blood shift & muscle firing from arms to legs... is something that can also be trained and something I have to contine to focus on
3. Focus on a non drafting bike leg. Concentrate, concentrate! and maintain focus, especially when your body tells you, you are tired. Mind, change that!
4. Bike to run... another crucial physiological shift that needs to be trained continuously.
5. 3/4 through the run. Body: Im tired. Mind: no, you are not! Mainatin form, pace, cadence.
6. Post race recovery: dont skip on that post race recovery carb/protein meal within 30' of finishing. Your body will thank you 2 days later!

I am now in my 17th and final year of competitive triathlon racing and still love the feeling of 'getting out there and smashing yourself'. However, I know my time is limited and am looking forward to giving it my all this year. No regrets!

Stay safe and enjoy what you do!