Day 13 motto – Bring Your A Game.  Why?  Because it’s important to remember that anyone, at any age, can bring their A Game.  For those in my age group (50+) … don’t use age as an excuse from creating a thriving life because time and wisdom do have benefits, especially if you are embracing an endurance sport.

1st, create a strategy to help you thrive.

5 “A Game” strategies

1. Set a goal
2. Be committed
3. Do your best
4. Stay focused
5. Celebrate the accomplishment

I applied those steps to Saturday’s brick training (50 mile ride & 3 mile run) with a 12+ Ironman finishers.

My “A Game” Strategy

1. Finish the complete workout
2. Prepare with food, water, tubes and other items needed to keep me committed and moving
3. Do not get discouraged if/when other riders drop me
4. Be aware of the surroundings, especially when riding in the peloton on Anaheim Blvd. in Wilmington; a highly concentrated area of industry and oil fields where the roads are cracked and littered with debris and potholes
5. Enjoy the IHOP special – pancakes, all I can eat

2nd, get “A-Game” support

From our first climb I slipped to last.  Keeping my mind positive was the biggest challenge, especially since I don’t like being last nor do I like holding back more experienced riders.  Yet here’s one big shout out of thanks to our leader, Jerry.  He stayed with me throughout the ride, encouraging me and pushing me beyond all comfort zones by trying to teach me how to draft, which scared me.  No, I’ll be more expressive, salty expressive — It scared the shit out of me.

What did it cost to be uncomfortable?

Nothing.

What was the reward?

Priceless happiness.  Brick training gave me a positive high for accomplishing the goal, staying committed, building strength, and being surrounded by wonderfully positive people.

What’s the take away?

Do something that brings out your A Game.
Enjoy the ride.

Day 13   (Part 1 @ 6 a.m.)

Day 13  (Part 2 @ 5 p.m.)