Just a few minutes from Las Vegas, Henderson hosted a big challenge in the middle of the desert...
Sunday 4:30 am: I was making final bike adjustments, filling my tank with calories that would keep me energized for the big day, and was already drinking tons of fluids (thinking ahead about the desert heat!)
Bets!?
I was confident. I didn't know my opponents very well, as I focused on long distances for only 6 months, so my plan was to race "balls to the walls!" and see how it would turn out!!
The fun started in the water, I had a good start for the 1.2 miles, and kept myself in the first group until about 0.8 mile, I was right behind a feet, which dropped out from the group, I was already dying so I just kept settled with that athlete, as I thought that 1 minute or so would not make a big difference at a half ironman. (I was right, as the winner left the water 1 minute behind me!!)
Lets head to the next game, because on this first one I would not gain anything else!!
Lets head to the next game, because on this first one I would not gain anything else!!
The bike was more strategic. With a bunch of athletes so close, it was necessary to take benefits from the pace, but observing the no-drafting rules. Just like a gambling, some moments I felt I would win, but during others I felt I would loose everything!! Near mile 30, on one of the climbs the group started to disperse and I was more or less in the middle.
I stood by myself, and started to break down, I looked back but there was nobody. With an average temperature of 100°F in Vegas, the heat began to rise and it was hard to complete those 56mi! I rode as hard as I could, trying not to let anyone else reach me. Tired of turning that lever, I couldn't wait to start the run!
I ran well the first lap, I had a controlled pace, running every mile under 6 minutes. My intention was to build my rhythm as my legs felt ok! But then I had belly cramps... Damn, I shouted a lot of rare Portuguese words! I hope none of those many Brazilians who were cheering me on heard... (It was really cool to see so many Brazilians there!!) Well, after almost walking in some portions of the course, by the end of the second lap, I could pick up my pace again, I did not gain a position, but I could keep those coins in my pocket!
23rd place was good! Although I am not so happy with my performance. But by far, is better than doing my best and coming in 30th! lol
Oww and of course, after partying for 70.3 miles, I had my hangover too. For 3 days I felt like I got run over by a truck!! :-D
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