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Keeping My Eyes on the Prize

“When adversity strikes, that’s when you have to be the most calm.  Take a step back, stay strong, stay grounded and press on.”  
LL Cool J

Yesterday marked 6 months before Ironman Mont Tremblant, and I found myself sitting in my doctor’s office waiting to have my right foot examined.  My foot had been bothering me off and on for the past week.  Ironically it didn’t bother me when I ran; the pain and discomfort would only occur a day or two after running.  I have had issues with tendinitis in my foot before, but with me training for my first Ironman, I wanted to make sure it wasn’t a stress fracture.  Per my doctor I have tendinitis and I should not run until I am healed.

Usually news like this would send me over the deep end, especially since I was planning to compete in a 10K race on Sunday.  This time was a lot different.  Prior to meeting with my doctor, I had already created a Plan B in case my foot was broken.  My Plan B entailed scratching all of my running races, and switching all of my tris leading up to IMMT to aquabikes (swim/bike only).  Fortunately I only have to scratch this Sunday’s race.  And since I cannot race, I will volunteer.  I also have a half marathon coming up at the beginning of April, but I have decided not to do it.  Instead I will do the event’s 8K.  I don’t want to rush my recovery. 

I have finally grown as an athlete to look at the bigger picture.  Yes I am disappointed that I cannot race this Sunday, and I have to take a break from traditional running, but it’s not the end of the world.  I can still swim, bike and strength train.  Instead of running on the road I will aqua jog.  My recovery is now part of my training.  Fortunately for me I still have time on my side.

I am declaring that 2014 is my year to become an Ironman!  I have visualized numerous times me coming across the finish line and hearing what every inspiring long-distance triathlete wants to hear, “You are an Ironman!”  All of the other races and events that I have on my calendar are just stepping stones to get me to my prize.  I must stay focused and not allow this injury deter me. This blip and any other blips that may occur during my journey will only make crossing the finish line at IMMT even sweeter.       

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