Around a month after completing my first ever full Ironman, I set my self a new challenge. I entered three 70.3 races over the course of 6 months with the goal to qualify and race the 2020 70.3 World Championships. This race, held in Taupō in December was the first of 3.
The Swim
I was pretty excited to get stuck into this race. It felt like my first proper race where I was actually gunning for a time and a spot. I knew I had to get out of the water first, so I set out doing what I do best. Due to the rolling start, and my age group being one of the last, I had to navigate through a bunch of people. It wasn't a huge issue, I exited the water first.
The Ride
The ride went well, though still not feeling 100% on the new bike set up. This was the first race in which I actually had a chance to pass people throughout the bike. It made for interesting riding and actually having a target in front of me.
The Run
I got off the bike feeling pretty good, I was tired, but at this point, I only had 1hr 40min left to go! most of the race was done. The run was 3 laps of a 7km course. It was HOT. I set my targets of 4.35/km and got to work. At 14km I felt awesome, I knew I was up around 8th place and was cruising along heading for a sub 4hr 40min. At 16km however, fate had a different plan for me. Full cramp set in into both calves and no matter what I did I could no relieve it. I stumbled and cried for the last 5km to finish in a frustrating 4hrs and 47min. I was pissed off and gutted.
Two races left to race... The goal is still there.