RMRR member Eric Greene competed in the 2008 Ironman Coeur d’Alene, on June 22, 2008, finishing in time of 11:38:56. Here’s a brief report of the event. Check out his blog at www.ironeric.blogspot.com for a full race report.
My Ironman Journey
I signed up for Ironman Coeur d’Alene one year ago. Ironman races sell out and some sell out on the first day of registration. Planning a big race one year ahead of time can be difficult, which is why registration starts one year in advance.
The Ironman consists of a 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike, and 26.2 (marathon) run. This event takes place during one day and must be completed within 17 hours. Each segment of the race has a time cutoff. The officials are strict about the rules and make no exceptions. Participants must wear a helmet on the bike, and no drafting, cussing, littering, or use of headphones is allowed. If you break the rules, you will get a penalty and may be disqualified.
Training for an Ironman is serious business. I started a winter program to keep in shape and work on my weaknesses. Most triathletes use a 20-30 week training program to help keep them focused. I used a 20 week training program that I found on beginnertriathlete.com. I modified the plan to fit my needs and my fitness level. The training schedule can vary, but I was extremely dedicated and kept most of the workouts.
What is the training like? I had 2 workouts a day for 6 days a week. I also had weight training 2 days a week. My workout times varied from 10 to16 hours per week. Training became intense and some workouts became tough. I had gels, nutrition bars, plenty of Gatorade and lots of food. I consumed an average of 4,000 calories per day and seemed like I never stopped eating. My training paid off. All those long miles running, biking and swimming made a big difference. I pushed my limits every day and never stopped. I rarely skipped a workout and kept fighting. The entire race was inspiring.
The swim start was crazy!! Starting with 2,100 other swimmers all at the same time was mind boggling. I didn’t get punched, kicked or beat up so I consider myself lucky. I finished the swim in great time and went to change. I spent too long in transition, but managed to keep great composure and kept rolling. The bike ride was amazing. The views were spectacular, the fans were cheering loudly, and the volunteers were not only extremely helpful, they were in large numbers so the athletes felt like professionals. My bike splits slowed down a little, but I managed to keep strong and didn’t stop much.
The run started and I felt great. I stuck to my nutrition plan. I didn’t have cramps, no stomach issues and I enjoyed myself. The first half of the marathon was easier and memorable. The second half was tough and mentally challenging. I incorporated a run/walk method which worked well. I would run one mile and walk for 30 seconds. Those breaks were nice and were a great reward every 8-9 minutes.
I finished the race around 6:30pm. I am now an Ironman. My total time was 11:38:56. I finished 444 out of 2,060. I also finished 44 out of 112 in my age division. My run overall place was 441 out of 2,060. I met most my time goals and I am very satisfied with my finish.
I didn’t do this race just for me. I also raised money for the Challenged Athletes Foundation through the Janus Charity Challenge. I want to thank my wife, Nicole, for all the support through my tough days of training. I also wanted to thank my friends and family for the guidance along this journey.
Will I do another? Not until at least 2010.