Mark Rubin's Blog About His Journey To Ironman http://www.10-hours.com en-us Copyright 2007, 2008 Tue, 06 Jan 2009 02:16:05 GMT http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss 60 Mon, 05 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-136-136.html Howdy yall -

This year the Texas Longhorns came to town to play in the Fiesta Bowl. nbsp;Many many moons ago_ Inbsp;hailed from the great state of Texas. nbsp;Inbsp;recall my time there very favorably as I had a great childhood there and I graduated from Southern Methodist University http://www.10-hours.com/blog-136-136.html Sun, 04 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-134-134.html A month ago Hillary told me its time for a run camp. nbsp;Silly me I was all in - lets do it I said. nbsp;For the last month_ Inbsp;ran and ran and ran. nbsp;3 of those weeks Inbsp;set mileage PRs and the other I was on pace but was derailed by a serious blister. nbsp;In all_ Inbsp;ran 233 m http://www.10-hours.com/blog-134-134.html Sun, 28 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-133-133.html WARNINGnbsp;tonight might get a little serious and more than a little shocking. nbsp;This blog might motivate you to do something differently with your diet and your life.. Anyone who follows my blog knows that Inbsp;am dedicated to helping others change their body shape and their fitness for the http://www.10-hours.com/blog-133-133.html Wed, 24 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-131-131.html Training has been going great. nbsp;No injuries_ no problems_ and Inbsp;am really enjoying running. nbsp;Thats a good thing as Inbsp;have been doing a bunch of it. nbsp;

Last week_ my left foot became irritated when Inbsp;nbsp;did a long run sans socks. nbsp;However_nbsp;Inbsp;n http://www.10-hours.com/blog-131-131.html Mon, 22 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-130-130.html Quite simply put_ Inbsp;am going to become a RUNNER. nbsp;Some day_ Inbsp;will look like Dan Beaver and run like Jeff Bassett. On second thought_ maybe I should run like Beaver and look like Bassett. nbsp;As for the running part_ Inbsp;might even throw in a litt http://www.10-hours.com/blog-130-130.html Tue, 16 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-127-127.html Inbsp;am very very excited about 2009.nbsp; In total_ I am doing at least 5 Ironman.nbsp; If Inbsp;am fortunate enough and qualify for Kona then Inbsp;will do six.nbsp; The highlight will be doing two Ironman events (the U.S. and European Championships)nbsp; in two weeks on two continents.nb http://www.10-hours.com/blog-127-127.html Sun, 14 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-126-126.html This past week marked the first week of Run Camp Fall 08. The mission of this camp is to vastly improve my run efficiency. This past week I knocked out 55 miles. The number of miles would be much higher but I had a healthy supply of hills this week including hill repeats on Via Linda with Lewis http://www.10-hours.com/blog-126-126.html Sun, 07 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-122-122.html Recovery and training continues. This week was fairly close to a normal week. I did not go as far or do as many workouts but the intensity and the distance is steadily increasing.

This coming week I begin a three week run block. I am looking forward to working on my weakness. Mark my w http://www.10-hours.com/blog-122-122.html Mon, 01 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-121-121.html I hope everyone had a Happy Thanksgiving. Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays. It is a special time to spend with family. And I did just that. Over the holiday_ I spent some quality time with each of the kids and for that I am very thankful. I watched them participate in the Tri Fam http://www.10-hours.com/blog-121-121.html Mon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-120-120.html Yesterday_ I had a wonderful experience as an athlete and as a person. To be sure_ Ironman Arizona was a blast and has pushed my love for the sport over the top and reaffirmed why I am an Ironman athlete. It is the love of sport. It is being pushed and pushing others to do their best. For some time http://www.10-hours.com/blog-120-120.html Fri, 21 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-119-119.html Ironman Arizona is now less than two days away. On Sunday at 7:00 I will participate in my 6th Ironman. With some luck I hope to complete my 5th. Anyone who reads my blog or knows me is aware of my race goals: break 10 hours in an Ironman and qualify for the Ironman World Championship in Kona_ http://www.10-hours.com/blog-119-119.html Sun, 16 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-118-118.html To my delight I get very reflective when my next Ironman gets close. Next week is close. So here are my reflections. BIG BOY FAMILY RESTAURANT ROCKS THE HOUSE. I was on Facebook this morning and noticed that my buddy Kyle has the Big Boy Icon as his picture. I died laughing. Kyle and I de http://www.10-hours.com/blog-118-118.html Sun, 09 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-117-117.html All of those that read this blog know how much I encourage everyone to give it their best. Those that know me personally recognize that one of my biggest pet peeves is someone who just goes through the motions. That is they race or train but they never seem to challenge themselves. I am conscious http://www.10-hours.com/blog-117-117.html Tue, 04 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-116-116.html Ironman Florida took place last weekend and as usual bike splits were ridiculously fast. Many many personal bests were set. And as usual after the race allegations of mass drafting (CHEATING) were made. Apparently there were only 7 officials for the entire 112 mile course. Apparently_ cyclis http://www.10-hours.com/blog-116-116.html Sun, 02 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-115-115.html Ironman Arizona is now less than three weeks away. I have worked hard and accordingly I am dreaming again of qualifying for Kona. There is a quote from Mark Twain that I really like that talks about dreaming: "Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn http://www.10-hours.com/blog-115-115.html Sun, 26 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-114-114.html The Soma Half Ironman has traditionally been the end of the season for me. Accordingly_ it has been an opportunity to enjoy my fitness and visit with the many friends that I have been lucky to make in this wonderful sport. There are some exceptions_ a couple of years ago I qualified for 70.3 worlds http://www.10-hours.com/blog-114-114.html Sun, 19 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-113-113.html Following in the tradition of last week I want to share a famous quote. Darwin once said "In the struggle for survival_ the fittest win out at the expense of their rivals because they succeed in adapting themselves best to their environment." In a nutshell_ this is exactly what Ironman is all abou http://www.10-hours.com/blog-113-113.html Sun, 12 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-112-112.html The late Vince Lombardi said "Winning isnt everything_ but the will to win is everything." Never is that statement more true than during an Ironman. An Ironman is all about the will to win. After my long ride_ I came home and thoroughly enjoyed watching the Ironman World Championship. Some p http://www.10-hours.com/blog-112-112.html Mon, 06 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-111-111.html One day last spring I received an email about a new NAS Ironman 70.3 event in Austin_ Texas. They named the new event Longhorn Ironman 70.3 . I registered for this event on the day it opened. Austin is simply a great town and I was psyched to go back to some of my former stomping grounds. Albeit http://www.10-hours.com/blog-111-111.html Fri, 03 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-110-110.html Well it has been one year since my string of bad luck began. I officially declare the streak over. This week I am heading to Austin_ Texas to compete in the Longhorn Ironman 70.3. Seeing that Texas is where the bad luck streak began it is fitting that it ends there as well. This is no more http://www.10-hours.com/blog-110-110.html Sun, 28 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-109-109.html A good indicator of how I am going to do in any race is my ability to be consistent in my training. Last week was another good week. In fact_ that makes two solid weeks with no missed workouts - for injury or otherwise. If that continues look out!!!!I am now firmly into my new program. I thi http://www.10-hours.com/blog-109-109.html Sun, 21 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-108-108.html This week was my second full week training on my new program. I am adapting but I am rather tired at this point. The good news and likely the most important news is that I am starting to get healthy again and I trust what I am doing. Look_ its not that I didnt trust what I was doing before but http://www.10-hours.com/blog-108-108.html Sun, 14 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-107-107.html I have hired a new coach - Hillary Biscay (www.hillarybiscay.com)- and I am extremely excited about it. In fact_ it has completely reinvigorated me. I have been thinking about how to seriously shake up my training for a while and I believe that this is the ticket. Simply stated - there is no http://www.10-hours.com/blog-107-107.html Wed, 10 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-106-106.html Hi Everyone_ It has been another long week as I have been rehabbing my injured calve. To make matters worse_ my son brought home the crud and now I have that also. A couple more weeks and this year from hell will indeed be over. On the bright side_ I ran 19 miles on the ALTER-G on Monday. http://www.10-hours.com/blog-106-106.html Sat, 06 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-105-105.html This year and by year I mean since October 5_ 2007 to date has now officially been a complete disaster.I realize that there are others battling problems and there are those who are in far worse situations than me. I recognize that I have friends battling financial insolvency_ cancer_ marriage c http://www.10-hours.com/blog-105-105.html Mon, 01 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-104-104.html Here is my outlook at it relates to triathlon_ life and family - at least until I find a new and better approach. I am now absolutely willing to be not very good at all; because in the end I am on the road to being very good indeed. Dont get me wrong. I am very competitive especially with mys http://www.10-hours.com/blog-104-104.html Mon, 25 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-103-103.html Well I had a great trail run today and wanted to share that information. I ran 17 miles on the pemberton trail. I ran a bit before I ran the trail clockwise. The trail is 15.3 miles. Today I saw several lizards and the worlds largest rabbit. This rabbit was the size of a medium dog. Huge I http://www.10-hours.com/blog-103-103.html Sun, 24 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-102-102.html Wow - in addition to Michael Phelps and Usain Bolt my favorite athlete from the recent Summer Games has to be Kenenisa Bekele who made it a unique Olympic long-distance double for Ethiopia on Saturday with relentless front-running that wore down everyone who dared to keep pace in the 5000m. In addi http://www.10-hours.com/blog-102-102.html Mon, 18 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-101-101.html Lately I have been wishing that I was stalked. You know maybe by paparazzi or maybe even Misty May!!!! Today I was and here is what happened. I was running Pemberton Trail like I have been for the last couple of weeks when I caught something out of the corner of my eye. I looked and all was http://www.10-hours.com/blog-101-101.html Sun, 17 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-100-100.html Joel_ my son_ had his 7th birthday this week. I broke down and bought a Wii. I wasnt going to fall for the new video game movement but I did. He absolutely loves it. After playing for a while and learning a few tricks_ he beat me in tennis and boxing. Joel and his brothers have played non- http://www.10-hours.com/blog-100-100.html Sun, 10 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-99-99.html Well there you have it. I have not posted in the last week because I am completely shot - completely burned out. You know going to Michigan and having the race cancelled just sent me into a tailspin. This year has just been a ton of work with no rewards. This should have been a great chance to g http://www.10-hours.com/blog-99-99.html Sat, 02 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-98-98.html I got up bright and early 3:30 a.m. E.S.T. to prepare for the Steelhead 70.3 Triathlon. For those of you who havent picked up on this that is 12:30 A.M Phoenix Time. I ate breakfast and drove thirty minutes to Lake Michigan. As soon as I opened the car door I was aware that the conditions wer http://www.10-hours.com/blog-98-98.html Fri, 01 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-97-97.html Yo - in case I forget please remind me that I need to keep training during this period of racing. And I do mean a ton of racing. This weekend begins the odyssey of 6 half ironmans_ 3 Olympics and one sprint culminating with an Ironman all within the next 16 weeks. This weekend I have traveled http://www.10-hours.com/blog-97-97.html Sun, 27 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-96-96.html This past week one of my best friends_ George Catalano_ turned 50. And we had a party. This party was a tad different than those that you might have for your 21 or 30th. It was a celebration none the less. Celebrations with meaning rock!!!! They are enriching and make our lives better. They de http://www.10-hours.com/blog-96-96.html Sun, 20 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-95-95.html On Sunday_ my wife_ my youngest son_ Max_ and I made an effort to escape the desert heat. We headed North to Flagstaff where I participated in the 5th oldest triathlon West of the Mississippi_ the Mountainman Triathlon. Some folks argue that this is the most beautiful course in the Southwest. This http://www.10-hours.com/blog-95-95.html Sat, 19 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-94-94.html After IMCDA_ I took a hard look at my recent results. I also took a hard look at my gains in fitness_ power_ etc. It didnt take long to realize that the ridiculous gains are now over. By that I mean the gains of 20 minutes in an olympic or 30 minutes in a half or an hour in a full Ironman are ju http://www.10-hours.com/blog-94-94.html Sun, 13 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-93-93.html This past winter_ Suzanne and I decided that Nathan was old enough for sleep away camp. Suzanne lobbied for a week_ I went for the whole enchilada. I thought 4 weeks would be more fun than one. Nathan went away to camp yesterday. I am absolutely floored. I miss him so much already. He is go http://www.10-hours.com/blog-93-93.html Thu, 03 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-92-92.html Yesterday_ we decided to come home from Cali. Our deal was we would stay until we ran out of money or stopped having fun. While La is expensive_ neither of those happened. What did happen then you ask? Max and Joel both threw up on different days and Suzanne and I never felt great. We decide http://www.10-hours.com/blog-92-92.html Mon, 30 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-91-91.html MOST DISAPPOINTED. I trekked over to Kat Von Ds place today expecting to meet the sexy star from LA INK. I thought maybe Kat and I would hit it off. You know clean cut triathlete meets exotic tattoo artist. Unfortunately_ Kat was out. I was thinking maybe some kind of an M Dot exploding out of http://www.10-hours.com/blog-91-91.html Sat, 28 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-90-90.html O.K. I am one confused individual. For months I told my wife that I have to get out of the heat this summer. Accordingly_ we made plans to go so SOCAL. Guess what now I am complaining that I am too cold. What gives? I am enjoying the obligatory break from the Ironman lifestyle. I ran about http://www.10-hours.com/blog-90-90.html Wed, 25 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-89-89.html Since my disaster at CDA I have been very down. I have questioned everything associated with my performance several times. I imagine that I will continue to do that for some time. In the end_ I was in position to qualify and just did not feel well. I had not felt well in a couple of days lea http://www.10-hours.com/blog-89-89.html Mon, 23 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-88-88.html I didnt exactly have the day I dreamed of or that I wanted. To be sure_ some rather benign conditions became rather difficult. Let me express one thing: getting to Kona is more difficult than I ever imagined. This is my 3rd legitimate shot and each time I have come up short for a different reaso http://www.10-hours.com/blog-88-88.html Sat, 21 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-87-87.html Ironman CDA is upon me. The week leading up until the event has been a lot of fun. Suzanne and I had a great time catching up and enjoyed some time alone. This trip has been awesome. We have seen many folks from Phoenix and we have enjoyed visiting with all of them. It is so obvious that th http://www.10-hours.com/blog-87-87.html Fri, 20 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-86-86.html Today I had a very light day. Lewis_ Travis_ Jeff_ Suzanne_ Shawn and I enjoyed a breakfast in a historic hotel hosted by Tri-Sports.com. The place was very cool. A quaint bed and breakfast if you like. Before that snack_ apprehensively_ I decided to take another dip in the Arctic aka Lake Coeu http://www.10-hours.com/blog-86-86.html Thu, 19 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-84-84.html Today_ I have two reasons to shout with joy from the rooftop. First_ Southwest Airlines found my bike and delivered it to me. Second_ the greatest ROCK and ROLL band in the world KISS announced an appearance. One night only at the Palm Casino in beautiful Las Vegas Nevada. I immediately secured http://www.10-hours.com/blog-84-84.html Wed, 18 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-83-83.html Training for and racing Ironman is kinda like life. When you get up and make your plan for the day everything seems perfect. I mean what can possibly go wrong!!!! Invariably something does. In life_ the list is long and includes the unexpected call from a client_ or a supplier_ etc. In Ironma http://www.10-hours.com/blog-83-83.html Tue, 17 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-82-82.html As I sit here packing for my trip to one of the most beautiful places on the planet_ Couer d Alene Idaho for this Sundays North American Ironman Championship_ I find it hard to believe that it has been a year since my last Ironman. However_ as I go through bags and look at stuff some memories mak http://www.10-hours.com/blog-82-82.html Sun, 15 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-81-81.html One more week to go. I am firmly into my taper now. I still feel flat and sluggish but that is to be expected. I felt myself getting sick last week. That is to be expected also. I had a sore throat but that was the extent of it. I definitely have treated this differently than some that I http://www.10-hours.com/blog-81-81.html Sun, 08 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-80-80.html Ah the taper. Some love the taper others hate it. For me_ the taper is my moment of truth. Have you done the work or did you fake it. There is no time left to fix what you failed to fix during training. Once taper starts training is out the window. You know the saying as close as we are now- http://www.10-hours.com/blog-80-80.html Mon, 02 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-79-79.html I love this time of year. It is Escape from Alcatraz time. If you have never jumped off the Belle into the San Francisco Bay you need to do so. It is an adrenaline rush that is second to none. Anyway_ before I got in my wreck I planned on doing the Escape. Well I am not going to do the whole http://www.10-hours.com/blog-79-79.html Tue, 27 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-78-78.html Ironman CDA quickly approaches. Lets get to that in a moment. First_ it is a great time of the year to be an ASU fan. First the Mens baseball team is ranked #3 overall heading into the post season. The lady devils are the 6th seed in the College World Series. They are making their 3r straight http://www.10-hours.com/blog-78-78.html Sun, 18 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-77-77.html Last week marked six week until Ironman Couer d Alene. By the way_ I did the usual. I swam a bunch_ I rode a bunch_ and I ran a bunch. Who woulda thought!!!! But (newsflash) I also raced a little. On Thursday night_ I participated in the Splash n Dash at Tempe Town Lake. It was a little http://www.10-hours.com/blog-77-77.html Sun, 11 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-76-76.html The weeks are still stacking up!!!!! That is what we want - consistency as Ironman Couer d Alene stealthly approaches. As I have said before_ Ironman training and success is all consistency. Isnt the same true with school_ college and work. Show up_ do your work - and you will succeed. That is http://www.10-hours.com/blog-76-76.html Sun, 04 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-75-75.html Ironman Training can seriously muddy ones senses as they pertain to training. It has been said many times that when one is Ironman Training that a ride is not a ride unless it is four hours and a run is not a run unless it is two hours_ etc. I have certainly been guilty of that kind of silly think http://www.10-hours.com/blog-75-75.html Fri, 02 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-74-74.html There were so many highlights from the Tri for the Cure that it is impossible to choose one that was the highlight. However_ I think the highlight for me was getting to run with my wife for her two mile run. She struggled a tad so I encouraged her. She is very new to all this silliness and I think http://www.10-hours.com/blog-74-74.html Sun, 27 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-73-73.html My friend Shane Arters recently reminded me of a famous quote by Napolean Hill. Hill stated "what the mind can conceive andbelieve it can achieve .....regardless of how many times you have failed in the past." My friends that is the esssence of Ironman. That is my new favorite quote. So th http://www.10-hours.com/blog-73-73.html Sun, 20 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-72-72.html The Waste Management 2nd Annual Tri for the Cure presented by Wellements is now behind us. This event is something that I take great pride in. Lewis_ Preston and I created this event to : (1) empower women to get in shape which will hopefully prevent them from getting cancer and; (2) raise money f http://www.10-hours.com/blog-72-72.html Sat, 12 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-71-71.html I am starting to feel rather good again. I even swam a couple of times this week. My shoulder is rather sore but it is working. I may even end up bilateral breathing when this is over - at least something good will come from these challenges. This week was great. Good training and good times w http://www.10-hours.com/blog-71-71.html Sun, 06 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-70-70.html NEWSFLASH - I RODE OVER 200 MILES THIS WEEK AND I DID NOT HIT OR GET HIT BY ANYTHING!!!!!!!!If there is anything good about an injury it is that it gives you a chance to get caught up in other areas of your life that might not have been getting adequate attention. For the past several weeks_ I http://www.10-hours.com/blog-70-70.html Fri, 04 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-69-69.html I just got word that I was selected as an All-American for my performance during 2007. The United States Triathlon Association awards such an honor to the top 5% in each age group. For the record I finished 98th overall out of 3045 ranked individuals. In Ironman distance racing_ overall I finishe http://www.10-hours.com/blog-69-69.html Sun, 30 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-68-68.html 12 weeks - 84 days until Ironman CDA. I will be ready or I will die trying. Well - as you will soon find out this was not the best week I could have had. As I mentioned in my last blog_ I recently found out that my shoulder injury is worse than the Dr. Lee originally thought. Accordingly_ I a http://www.10-hours.com/blog-68-68.html Tue, 25 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-67-67.html Well so much for the high 2 grade separation. Dr. Lee called today with the results of my MRI - a classic grade 3 separation. All of the ligaments are involved. Here is some medical jargon. What is an AC joint separation?An AC joint separation_ often called a shoulder separation_ is a dis http://www.10-hours.com/blog-67-67.html Sun, 23 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-66-66.html IMAZ is out so backup plan #1 is in play. Here we go. Today marks 13 weeks or 91 days until Ironman Couer d Alene or IM CDA as it has come to be known. The facts are simple if I dont keep moving then CDA is also out. That being said_ if I am not able to swim fairly soon then it is out anyway. http://www.10-hours.com/blog-66-66.html Thu, 20 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-64-64.html At this time_ I am one hurting camper. My shoulder has been in what seems like constant spasm. I have battled nausea for the past 48 hours. In fact_ it has gotten so bad that I actually fainted. I felt it coming on so I leaned against the wall. Moments later I was sitting on my bottom on the flo http://www.10-hours.com/blog-64-64.html Sun, 16 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-63-63.html O.K. So Billy Dean and I got hit by a car_ my left shoulder suffered a grade 3 (the worst) separation_ and I am not going to get to try an qualify at IMAZ at a race that I felt very confident about. Not to mention the wasted hours etc. That is one way to look at it. It just isnt the way I look a http://www.10-hours.com/blog-63-63.html Sat, 15 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-65-65.html As Saturday was winding down Billy Dean and I were hit by a car. I have a separated shoulder. More information later. http://www.10-hours.com/blog-65-65.html Sun, 09 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-62-62.html What is a Hero? Some believe a Hero is one who is admired or idealized forcourage or outstanding achievements. I think that definition holds truemost of the time but it does not completely encompass who/what a Hero does.For example_ to a child his/her mother or father is often a Hero. But t http://www.10-hours.com/blog-62-62.html Sun, 02 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-61-61.html Why do some of us train for and race Ironman rather than just try to complete Ironman competitions. Do we do it to stay fit? Or do we do it because other cant. I know that sometimes when someone asks me that question I reply with my standard "just hold me because I have nothing else to do." http://www.10-hours.com/blog-61-61.html Sun, 24 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-60-60.html In last weeks blog I stated that "Ironman Training is all about building and recovering. You do that several times and you are suddenly in Ironman shape." Unfortunately_ unlike in past years_ I am not recovering. This week started with some high hopes and some heavy training. Coming off last week http://www.10-hours.com/blog-60-60.html Sun, 17 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-59-59.html Ironman Training is all about building and recovering. You do that several times and you are suddenly in Ironman shape. That is especially true if you do this process several times over multiple years. Surprisingly_ the process does not hurt that much. It is_ however_ rather time consuming. http://www.10-hours.com/blog-59-59.html Sun, 10 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-58-58.html Coming off last weeks pathetic training I was getting a bit nervous. Last Sunday_ as I applied ice to my ailing hamstring_ I was thinking man I only have ten weeks until game day and I am not doing any good training - I havent tested myself and I am getting worried. Monday and Wednesday I felt th http://www.10-hours.com/blog-58-58.html Sun, 03 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-57-57.html No one and I mean no one is happier than I am that this week is now over. There is some good and a whole mess of bad. First the good. The week got off to a great start. On Monday_ I ran a solid 2 1/2 hours in the morning and followed that up with a good 1 hour run in the evening. I hit all m http://www.10-hours.com/blog-57-57.html Sun, 27 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-56-56.html Too funny. I was surfing the net this morning and I came upon the following quote: "Ironman training focuses on more than just endurance training. When you are triathlon training for an ultra length event such as the Ironman you are no longer in a training program_ as much as your training program http://www.10-hours.com/blog-56-56.html Sun, 20 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-54-54.html Wow - just got a great training week in the books. Saturday was an epic day. It started off with a solid 4200 yard masters swim. The water was still a chilly 77 but that was magnified by the 32 degree air temp. Following the swim_ we hit the bike for a solid 7 hours. We knocked out towers and B http://www.10-hours.com/blog-54-54.html Sun, 13 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-52-52.html The reason to run here in January - warmth of the sun -- returned to carry 35_000 runners through the fifth P.F. Changs Rock n Roll Arizona Marathon half Marathon on Sunday. Temperatures for the start in downtown Phoenix were 20 degrees warmer than last year and climbed into the mid 60s by the http://www.10-hours.com/blog-52-52.html Wed, 09 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-51-51.html It is so early in the Ironman training program that I am actually still having fun. Today we worked on some speed and strength and later I will catch a swim. A buddy sent me a file that has just completed motivated me. He captured on film my finish from last years Ironman Arizona. I was so psych http://www.10-hours.com/blog-51-51.html Sun, 06 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-50-50.html I am very excited about the P.F. Changs 1/2 marathon this weekend. It has been a long time since I have put out a race effort. My coach_ Melissa Spooner and I am anxious to test my fitness. I will not taper for this. Notwithstanding that_ this effort will give me a good idea where my fitness is. http://www.10-hours.com/blog-50-50.html Sun, 30 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-49-49.html No one is happier than me that this week is in the books. I logged some serious base miles this week. On Christmas_ Billy Dean and I took to the streets and rode a cool 98. Later in the week_ Brian Henry and I hit the hills and ran a half marathon. Finally_ I did the Ironman swim on Saturday. http://www.10-hours.com/blog-49-49.html Sun, 23 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-46-46.html For the second year in a row_ 10-Hours and Tri-Scottsdale made several kids Christmas just a little better. On Friday December 21_ 10-hours and Tri-Scottsdale in partnership with RTA HomeCare and Landis Cyclery gave bikes and helmets to children associated with the Boys and Girls Club of Scottsdale http://www.10-hours.com/blog-46-46.html Thu, 20 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-45-45.html Today_ Lewis and I spoke at Kyrene Monte vista Elementary School. Shawn OConnell a 5th grade teacher and Tri-Scottsdale featured athlete set up our visit with the entire 3rd_ 4th and 5th grade classes. The kids and faculty were amazingly receptive to us. I spoke about childhood obesity. Name http://www.10-hours.com/blog-45-45.html Sun, 16 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-44-44.html First_ another good week is in the books. I had some great swims_ bikes_ and runs. The weights are going well again and I feel like my shoulder strength is beginning to come around. I can do push ups again. In fact_ I pounded out 60 of them. Also_ I went on a group ride. I had a blast with my http://www.10-hours.com/blog-44-44.html Sun, 09 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-43-43.html Last week went great. As I mentioned earlier_ I am free to swim with some minor restrictions. Each day that I have swam has gotten better. My shoulder feels stronger already. I am going to take it slow and easy in the rehabilitation. Everyone thinks that I will be faster than I ever was by the http://www.10-hours.com/blog-43-43.html Wed, 05 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-42-42.html It is 4 months 9 days or if you like 131 days until Ironman Arizona. Exactly seven weeks two days and eight hours ago I did my last race and broke my collarbone. Since then I have done very little. Sorry if that was cheesy but it sounded good at the time.This morning I went to see Dr. Lee. B http://www.10-hours.com/blog-42-42.html Mon, 03 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-41-41.html CHANGE IS HARD. In fact_ I tried and failed several other times to lose weight. Everyday millions of people decide to make a lifestyle change. And everyday_ just like me_ millions of people fail to achieve their goal. Lets see if there is a way to succeed.It is almost the new year. For most of http://www.10-hours.com/blog-41-41.html Sat, 01 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-40-40.html I hate Cancer. Cancer killed my dad. As a result_ I am committed to raising money to defeat hormonal driven cancers. To that end_ I raise money for the Phoenix Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure. In addition_ in conjunction with Tri-Scottsdale_ Lewis Elliot (http://www.lewiselliot.com) http://www.10-hours.com/blog-40-40.html Tue, 27 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-39-39.html Training has officially begun again. For what you asked? The most ambitions schedule that I have attempted to date. Highlights include the potential for four full Ironman events (IMAZ twice this year April and November IM Couer d Alene and hopefully Kona) _ five half Ironman events_ Alcatraz and http://www.10-hours.com/blog-39-39.html Tue, 20 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-38-38.html Last week was interesting and another step in the healing process. I am now five weeks into the healing process and unfortunately my clavicle is still moving. By moving I mean that the Dr. Lee or Nate over at Endurance Rehab can manipulate the bone to move. I even tried it and it does move. When http://www.10-hours.com/blog-38-38.html Mon, 19 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-37-37.html I had the privilege this weekend of watching approximately 220 kids ages 7-14 participate in the 2007 Ironkids National Championships. This was so cool. If you ever have a chance to see this I highly recommend you do so. The National Championship began in 1985 and since then more than 40_000 k http://www.10-hours.com/blog-37-37.html Fri, 09 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-36-36.html This morning_ as usual_ I went for a run with my buddy Pat Chang. Pat is a great runner and he_ like many others_ has helped me develop some running skills. After our run_ I went into the gym where I was planning on doing some strength and core work. That is where it all started.I was minding http://www.10-hours.com/blog-36-36.html Wed, 07 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-35-35.html I am very lucky. Since I moved here_ I have been fortunate to associate with some fine people. I believe that I have the best doctor in the orthopedic business in Dr. Michael Lee. Dr. Lee is the Diamondbacks team physician/surgeon. In addition_ he was a competitive swimmer. Do you think he may http://www.10-hours.com/blog-35-35.html Tue, 06 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-34-34.html This article ran in the East Valley Tribune today. It is rewarding to see that other people think the work that you are doing is helpful. Scottsdale#8217;s Marc Rubin is supposed to be in Panama City Beach_ Fla._ this week preparing to run Saturday#8217;s Ford Ironman Florida. Unfortunately f http://www.10-hours.com/blog-34-34.html Mon, 05 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-33-33.html Ironman Florida has passed so I can give up the goods. If you asked folks in my group they would likely agree that I am pretty good at predicting my finish times. That being said_ I had trained really hard (like everyone) but I had also focused a significant amount of time on technique in getting http://www.10-hours.com/blog-33-33.html Fri, 02 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-32-32.html Well - I have been wondering how I was going to feel today. I have been antsy all week leading up to what should have been my final rest day before IMFL. A day where I should be packing up special needs and going over last minute details. Instead_ I am still here in Scottsdale and that is o.k. http://www.10-hours.com/blog-32-32.html Fri, 26 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-31-31.html This is an excerpt form a blog posted on Tri-Scottsdale.org Tri-Scottsdale_ in its effort to promote health and wellness_ visited Phoenix Country Day School. Marc Rubin_ a Tri-Scottsdale athlete_ visited with students_ faculty and parents about health and wellness. Marc showed many pictures of h http://www.10-hours.com/blog-31-31.html Thu, 25 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-29-29.html When I started all this five years ago I did it so that I would see my kids grow up. What I did not consider at that time was that my kids were going to do the things that I do. Imagine that naivety - I guess a new dad doesnt figure it all out at once. Anyway_ my kids love being active. Two http://www.10-hours.com/blog-29-29.html Thu, 25 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-30-30.html Lets face it getting hurt sucks. In very short time I went from riding at a very high level to not being able to even ride my trainer. I never felt sorry for myself but I did become frustrated. Side note - I am riding the trainer just fine now. I just received an email from a friend who is a http://www.10-hours.com/blog-30-30.html Sat, 20 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-28-28.html I tried to hop on my trainer today. That did not work. The angle is just too steep. I tried to hold myself with my good arm but no luck. In fact_ the latch came unlocked and down I went. I am fine. Frustration has set in. I went from training approximately 5 hours per day to doing nothing http://www.10-hours.com/blog-28-28.html Tue, 16 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-27-27.html Well - I just got the news. I have a classic complete displaced fracture of my clavicle. Today is the first day of my off season. I am going to take two weeks off and do nothing but rest. It has been a long year and I am really beat up.After I rest_ I am going to get ready for IM Arizona. http://www.10-hours.com/blog-27-27.html Mon, 15 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-26-26.html Dallas has changed. I left Dallas twelve years ago and in that time it has grown and grown and grown. If you want to have a good time go to Dallas. On a per capita basis_ Dallas has more Bars or Restaurants than any other city in the U.S. Major props to several of my long time friends from Dall http://www.10-hours.com/blog-26-26.html Fri, 12 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-25-25.html The Ironman World Championships (www.ironmanlive.com) in Kona start tomorrow morning and I am not there. Instead_ I am in Dallas preparing for my last race before Ironman Florida_ the Lifetime Fitness U.S. Open Triathlon. This multi-sport event serves as the culmination of the Life Time Fitness Tri http://www.10-hours.com/blog-25-25.html Mon, 08 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-24-24.html This week I am traveling to Dallas to participate in the U.S. Open National Championship. The event is an Olympic distance event with a point to point swim and a point to point bike. The run is through downtown Dallas.I am very excited to go to Dallas to race. I have never raced in Dallas so http://www.10-hours.com/blog-24-24.html Fri, 05 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-23-23.html It is amazing how many problems one can solve while watching the blackline on the bottom of a swimming pool for a couple of hours. Maybe a designer could make the line disappear or blink if you were traveling too fast or too slow. In any event_ today I got in an easy 4200 meters on the clock. I f http://www.10-hours.com/blog-23-23.html Wed, 03 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-22-22.html Today I turned 40 and I swam the fastest 100 yards and ran the fastest mile of my life. I went 1:15 and 6:33. These times occurred during the course of a workout and were not all out efforts. I think that it is very cool that these efforts came on a day that led me to reflect on where I am and http://www.10-hours.com/blog-22-22.html Tue, 02 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-21-21.html Tri-Scottsdale supporter and member cardiac surgeon Dr. Dwight Lundell and co-author Todd Nordstrom engage in a riveting yet straightforward conversation that explains the epidemic and provides an easy to follow process to eliminate heart disease.According to Dr. Lundell_ sometime during one of http://www.10-hours.com/blog-21-21.html Mon, 01 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-20-20.html Today was my last long training run for Ironman Florida. I have to give major props to all my training partners for helping me get through this one. First Pat Chang ran with me for an hour. Pat pushed me to run a little harder than I thought that I could or more precisely that I should. Next_ Pr http://www.10-hours.com/blog-20-20.html Sat, 29 Sep 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-19-19.html This looked like a great training day at first. Ride down to Splash and Dash with all my buddies. Compete then ride another six hours then ht the track. Unfortunately_ I still havent recovered from previous training blocks and I am burdened with being severely overtrained. So_ I rode down watche http://www.10-hours.com/blog-19-19.html Tue, 25 Sep 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-18-18.html Lewis and I were invited to talk at a Glendale Community College class about triathlon today. It was a real treat to see fresh blood coming into our sport. These guys and gals are fired up and they came in all shapes and sizes. I had a great time with them and I am going back next week to finish http://www.10-hours.com/blog-18-18.html Sun, 23 Sep 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-17-17.html I suppose I should be happy that I improved on my time by last year by 2 minutes but as you may have guessed I am not happy. I was so due to have a bad race. I have not had a bad one by my standards for some time. Here is how the day went. First_ I really did not want to do this race but I de http://www.10-hours.com/blog-17-17.html Tue, 18 Sep 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-16-16.html Track today was 10 400s. That is a ton easier than the 10 800s that we did last week. We had a bot of an easy day today as many of the track participants are planning on competing in the Timex Triathlon this coming weekend. Right now I am not sure about doing this olympic race. Why? I just d http://www.10-hours.com/blog-16-16.html Sat, 15 Sep 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-15-15.html Yesterday was my first real training day for Ironman Florida. It is hard to believe that the race is 7 weeks away. My training partner_ Pro Triathlete Lewis Elliot_ Steven Stromberg and I rode 90 then hit the track for some mile repeats. Wow - the track was hot. The black top was sizzling with o http://www.10-hours.com/blog-15-15.html Fri, 14 Sep 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.10-hours.com/blog-14-14.html Welcome to my website. In this space_ I am going to share my closest thoughts as they pertain to Ironman training and my battle with obesity. I sincerely hope that my ramblings are helpful. That being said - time to go for a little recovery run. http://www.10-hours.com/blog-14-14.html