“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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