It's crazy to think this event will take place in just a few short weeks. I remember like it was yesterday trying to convince Alan to train for a Half Ironman. Ha... and the crazy ass bought it! Then Noel bought in and with little experience in triathlon, they have got in shape and now are a real threat for the 'Fittest Clark' crown.'
Meanwhile, Andy is in Miami training his ass off while also trying to buy every speed advantage possible (Zipp wheels, Q-ring, tri-suits that decrease your HR, pro wetsuit, etc.). We should also point out he participates in every triathlon on the calendar. The guy should be getting his Pro card any day now.
It is amazing to see a group of brothers who grew up playing baseball and football try to tackle a grueling endurance sport like triathlon. The transformation is amazing. Alan is losing lard left and right. Andy has lost a couple of biceps and pecs and is now close to normal human-being size. Noel has always been a freak athlete but for him to lose some lean mass is also quite the transformation.
I can remember back at UAB when we had to run 1 mile every Friday (yes 1 mile) and I wanted to punch our coach in the head for making us do it. Now, an hour run seems to be a casual workout. Needless to say, times have changed.
With only a few weeks of training remaining, it is time to nut up and finish what we set out to do. The crown will go to the bro who performs the best on June 12th. Yes, I want the crown, but I also want all of us to cross the finish line in one piece and have a shit ton of memories until our next great race. So, get your asses in the pool, on the saddle and on the pavement (or treadmill if you are in Washington state... Ha!) and be ready for this amazing day! No fucking excuses these next 6 weeks. Trust me, you want to be ready. 70.3 miles can be a loooooong day if you are not prepared physically and mentally.
Is this Half Ironman going to be painful? Absolutely, but when you cross that finish line you will feel amazing! All the hard work will have paid off and the IPAs will flow freely. Boise will be an exciting trip and I am already excited for the next one. Lake Stevens 70.3 2011??
Stay Healthy and Train HARD!!
See you soon!
Nick
