Blenheim 2009

I guess you should never be dissapointed with a Tri finishing time. However, this is how I have felt since finishing the Blenheim Triathlon on Sunday. For many just being able to finish should be enough, but for me, 4 years into my taking part in Triathlons I feel I should be doing better. This is typical of me, I have always been very competitive and very hard on myself.

I guess my dissapointment is two fold. Firstly I am dissapointed that Marcus managed to beat me by 3mins or so. As Marcus has stated in his blog we have a friendly rivalry and like nothing better than getting one over each other in any event. At this point I should congratulate Marcus as he has clearly been training very hard and deserves his victory. Marcus - Well done. Secondly I am dissapointed that because I know I can do better. Althought my time was not bad by any standard I know with proper preperation I can be quicker than that.

To be honest my preperation has been poor, there are no shortcuts in Triathlon and to keep improving requires a greater effort each year. At Blenheim I basically got what my lifestyle and amount of training deserves.

I have had a few changes in my life this year which have meant that I have had to change my normal training routine and frequency, and in reality what with working a reasonable commute away, and wanting to spend time with Lewis, my only training oppurtunities are very early in the morning. Adding to that I must also admit that I have over indulged recently in the food and drink department.No excuses though .... I just haven't got out there and done it. I've talked the talk but havn't walked the walk. I know it's pathetic and there are more important things in life, but I feel quite depressed about it all, and it's getting to me.

On the lead up to Blenheim I realised this I was underprepared and just didn't feel good at any stage in the race. It was a real struggle and I didn't enjoy it as much as previous races.

This Sunday is my favourite race of the year at Windsor. I have competed in this race for the last 3 years and have enjoyed each one whilst managing to improve my times year on year. This year is a bit unknown. I am looking forward to it, and will as always be as competitive as possible, but in my heart of heart I don't feel in PB shape. Time will tell I guess.

I guess I must learn to cope with additional time constraints better, and find a way of juggling my interests with work, tavel and family commitments. Either that or I must win the lottery!
My problem is I just can't enjoy completing the races, my character dictates that i must be competitive, otherwise I might as well not take part.

In summary Stoddart.... get your arse in gear!