I began 2016 back in Boulder and still not able to run. After 12 months of injury I felt pretty disillusioned, until I took a trip to Bend, Oregon and worked with Jay Dicharry. I returned to Boulder with new found hope, focusing on getting my body healthy and strong and setting myself up to race at the top of my game for the next 5 years.
Ironman 70.3 Oceanside – April
Tested out the beard, tested out the new custom Wattie Ink suit, tested out the new wetsuit sponsor Blueseventy, tested out the injury- Check, Check, Check, Check
Ironman 70.3 St George – May
I felt healthy but kept a conservative run prep leading into St George, still unsure if I was going to be able to mix it up with the very best on the run course. My takeaway from this race was that I just needed to get to the start line healthy because after a long career I know how to bring the best out of myself for a race. I was pleased to walk away with a 3rd place after Sebastian Kienle and Lionel Sanders.
Ironman 70.3 Boulder – June
Racing a 70.3 during my Ironman Frankfurt prep was a tough way to go for my fifth title at Boulder. With so many great up and coming young athletes wanting to take the title, I definitely felt the pressure. It was my experience in the end that got me across the line and it rekindled my hunger to win again.
Boulder 70.3
Ironman Frankfurt – July
With no Ironman points I gave myself one shot at making Kona by racing the second biggest ironman of the year in Frankfurt Germany. My preparation was flawless until 10 days out when I strained my lower back. This coupled with the travel made my race unravel half way through the bike and I had to pull out a quarter of the way through the run. Despite the disappointing race, it was nice being back in Europe eating some good German baked goods.
Rev 3 Poconos Olympic – August
I decided to add this race because it was a great hit out for the Ironman 70.3 World Championships in September. I had the added bonus of racing the best non drafting Olympic athlete going round, friend and training partner, Cam Dye. Cam put on an exhibition, I fought hard and came away with second place. Most importantly I had the fastest run split and feel like I am back to my best.
Thank you to all my Sponsors who have supported me this year and helped me get back on track.
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