Changing winds

Fall is beginning to whisper in my ear and in previous years, I dread that cold whisper. Not surprising since I have lived in Houston and So Cal for over 25 years absorbing the warmth and sunshine deep into my flesh. As a result, my motivation for braving the cold is usually absent during fall/winter which causes me to struggle in early season races. Last year was the exception when I struggled through the entire year. This year I am trying a new strategy. I haven’t been on my bike since the 5430 Long Course back in early August except for once. Even a month later I am not chomping at the bit to get back on. I simply haven’t thought about the bike that much since the race. For the time being, I am enjoying being a pure runner. I hope my St. George results reflect the work I have put into my running and more importantly, I hope that same running fitness carries over into next year. I have always struggled on the runs in a triathlon so I am trying to give myself a jump start this time around.

I am hoping that by the time mid-October rolls around, I will be craving to get back on the bike regardless of weather. Until that craving comes, I’ll let the bike rest in favor of running shoes.

Those that know me know it is usually around this time I start the great debate. Do I hang up the triathlon gear in favor of being a pure cyclist? This year there is no debate. I am triathlete AND I am a cyclist. At least for another year.

So as I look ahead to St. George and beyond to next season, I see a lot of areas I need to work on to really improve and continue taking steps forward. Much like this year’s election, this off season will be about change. I need to do something different to get off the plateau I have been on the last couple of years. So what is in store for me next year? I can’t say just yet, but you can bet that I will be changing things up in the racing scene as well as the off season. Besides, if I make any big announcements here, it will take away from another big story.

Run hard,
J-Rod