The world is not enough....

Today was race day and I was fortunate to take part in my 3 world championship in Maui.  The weather was nice, sunny and hot.  Shockingly no calamity fell on us today!  No jelly fish, Tsunami or high surf.  Close to 800 people would take part and as I would later find out , 92 guys in my division alone.  After a blessing ceremony the gun went of for the pros and than 2 min later it would be the men.  I started far right as the current was pushing right to left but could have been a bit further.  The swim course is 1500 in a M design, the first peak being 500 m away so by the time you're running on the beach to head back to the water, you're 1000 m into the swim. I had hope to have a better swim time this year but when it was all said and done, it was about the same.  After a transition that could have been a bit faster I was off on the bike course.  This year was a beast with 32 km, 3600 feet of climbing.  I decided to ease of on the first half so I would have something left for the second half. This would pay off as I would be able to tackle the twist and turn of the last few miles and pass people.  Off to T2 with a decent transition and I was off on the run.  Another though run with close to 1200 feet of climbing and a beach run.  I was hoping to be running the same time than last year but I knew that the bike course had taxed my legs, I'd finish slightly slower than last year on the run.  I ended up finishing 26 in my age group and was quite please with it.  This wasn't an easy race and the hot weather did not help either.  Congrats to all my friends that finished, Al, Allison, GL, Roy, Sean and Patrick. Happy trails!

Carpe Diem

Less than 24 hrs to go

Short ride, run and swim today and than it was out of the sun and off my feet.  The weather is turning which means it's going to be hotter. You could already feel it.  In true Xterra fashion, there are three warning for tomorrow.  Flash flood. High surf, box jelly fish.  Pick you poison, I hope non of them comes to fruition.  So race starts at 9 am Maui time which noon pacific.  Feel free to follow at www.xterraplanet.com  Tonight is the mandatory race briefing, dinner than an early bed time.  No marking tomorrow, we have tattoos to apply ourselves.  Stay tuned for the race report.  Happy trails!

Carpe Diem

T-2 days to worlds

Today started with a workout in the pool with Sean and Roy, 1300 yards or so. I then went on my own to ride a bit of the mountain bike course again,  wanted to take a look at the last three miles of the course which is quite twisty and turny.  I even saw Xterra legend Conrad Stoltz from South Africa, a quick hello as he is such a nice and classy guy and I kept going, I think he was stopping to figure out the right line for the section.  Wasn't happy with the way my bike was shifting so it was time to send it to the mechanic for an adjustment.  Tomorrow will be a light workout, haircut for charity and resting my legs out of the sun and finally race dinner.  Happy trails!

Carpe Diem

Open water swim, the DT Fleming factor

Today was a swim at DT Fleming, site of the open water swim.  Now you never know what kind of swimming condition you will get. The shore break wasn't to big today but it was still hard to swim up there.  The Kahuna, Dave Nicholss, director of Xterra was there to get some of the markers and it look far! Oh well we shall see  on race day what the water brings us.  I also did a nice brisk run at the end of the day.  Weather is great and tomorrow will be time for more swimming and a light ride of parts of the course.  It's going to be a beast on the weekend.  Also got my race number #433 and we have nice Xterra tatoo with our last name on it, very cool.  Stay tuned for more updates!  Happy trails!

Carpe Diem

Scouting report: revamp bike course at worlds

Today was the day to sample the bike course in full.  I was aware that changes had taken place  but hadn't seen it all.  Now some people won't like this course and some will.  Let's start with the facts:  there is more climbing total of 3600 feet over 32 km or so.  There is also more single track at the back end of the course. It's very twisty and will be slow at time due to fresh cut grass as well as soft and sandy sections.   I think this will be slower for sure and will have to pace on the first half of the course.  Like my friend Al said, you only have so many matches to burn before the box is empty.  I do feel that this course is more suited for mountain bikers than roadies but will see.  They don't call it worlds for nothing so it shouldn't be easy.  Stay tuned for more updates from Maui, until then, happy trails!

Carpe Diem

T -9 days, when the world comes together

It' s the time of  the year where leaf are falling, days are getting shorter.  This also means that it's the time of the year where ocean swim, beach running and mountain biking in pineapple field is just around the corner.  Xterra World Championship, a chance to test your metal against the best of the best, under gruelling  conditions.  It's one of my favourite time of the year for the past couple of years and this year won't be any exception. Alas my lovely Fiancee won't be able to come as she needs to study for finals.  On the other hand, I am looking forward to see the usual suspects, tribe members that I have been fortunate enough race and have fun with.  I also always enjoy chatting with the pro's that I have been fortunate to meet, train and race with.  Xterra is really a different feel when it comes down to it.  I'm sure this year won't be any different.  We swam in what was left of a Tsunami last year, so you never know what mother nature will throw at you.  The race will take place again on the grounds and around the Ritz Carlton in Kapalua.  This event will be 1.5 km of open water ocean swim, 30 km of mountain bike and 10 km trail run.  I will be heading to Maui on Monday to train, acclimatize myself and have a bit of  a holiday.  As funny as it sound, it helps me decompress from the day to day stress and make me appreciate how lucky I am.  So stay tuned for the scouting report starting next tuesday from Maui!  Happy Trails!

Carpe Diem

Gear 2.0: Traveling and dealing with Jet-lag

I travel a fair amount for racing and leisure and people often ask me how I deal with time change and long trips. I have done short trips of a couple of hours up to traveling for more than 35 hours.  Some of these things work for me, so I figured I would pass it along.  First and foremost, the minute I sit down on the plane I change my watch to the time zone I am flying to and I will keep adjusting as I am changing planes for my final destination.  I also travel with melatonin which helps me to "turn myself around" quicker.  I will either take it on a long flight after the meal service or take it to my final destination to help myself go to sleep.  The nice thing about melatonin is that its natural and there is no after effects long as you follow the instruction.  I also never travel without my compression socks, and wear them religiously which help with circulation and not having blood pooling in your ankles while you flying.  It also helps after my workouts and after a race.  I even sometimes fly with compression shorts if its a long flight, I find my legs are fresher off the plane and I can get into a work out quicker.  I try to hydrate on the flight and will have a drink at dinner, especially if I am trying to sleep, I find it helps me.  Be weary of alcohol consumption while flying though, it will be hard on your system and will dehydrate you.  Same with coffee, I have  a cup if I need to stay awake but try not to over do it, the same goes with pop.  Depending of the time of the day that I arrive, I will try to have a light workout like a run or a swim.  Nothing too long but just enough to get my body going, that said if its night I just try to go to bed.  The next morning I usually build my bike and try to go on a ride.  The trick is to try to get in to a normal rhythm as soon as you can.   It is said that for every hour of time change your body needs a day to acclimates itself, so if it is an important race, try to give yourself enough time so your body is ready to perform at its best.  I hope this helps if you have upcoming traveling  races or if you're planning some in the future.  The last race of the season approach for me, Xterra World in Maui at the end of October.  Until then, happy trails!

Carpe Diem

Xterra Boise, the aftermath

We got up Saturday morning  and headed early to transition ad Steph was doing her first triathlon, taking part in the sprint.  Her race started an hour before mine so we both headed at the same time.  I would only see her swim as she would be long on the course by the time my race started. I wad a bit nervous for her, it was her first time mountain biking, beside the 30 minute lesson she got from me the day before as she had decided to race as my friend Lisa happened to have a spare bike fitting her.  although the course wasn't overly technical, I was hoping she' d be fine.  Ultimately she would do awesome, finishing third in her age group!  As for my race, the swim was longer than usual, which did not help me and would ultimately cost me a spot on the podium.  The bike course was 2 laps and was trying to go as fast as I could to make up time.  One technical descent with rocks was on the menu as well as 2 very steep climb.  I would ultimately fall once, on my second lap in the technical section and would have the 9th fastest bike split on the day.  The run course was fast although a 24 %  grade hill would greet me twice.  I would ultimately have the 5th fastest running time.  I finished 12th overall but sadly 4th in my age group, proving that the locals were fast.  Thankfully the weather was overcast so we did not overheat too much.  As usual I can't thank my sponsors enough, Cap's Westwood cycle maple ridge store who always get my race steed in prime shape.  Synergy wetsuit and Gray cycle, Sugoi clothing and Vega.  Not sure what I will be able to squeeze before Xterra worlds races wise but stay tuned for some update and some gear review.  A big thanks to Lisa for loaning her bike, Allison for showing us Boise and Al for cheering although I think he would have much rather be racing.  Happy trails!

Carpe Diem

Xterra Boise

After a few days of cycling in Napa and some wine tasting, Steph and I forged on to Boise for Xterra, the drive was long, hot ad the air con couldn't even cool off the desert heat of Nevada.  We arrived yesterday where I went and rode th course.  It's a fairly fast course with one technical section which is a mix of single tracks and garden rocks.  This 10 mile loop will have to be repeated twice.  The run is a bit if an unknown with a nasty 24% climb, although short will have to be done twice also.  The weather is very warm here but it should still be ok in the morning.  Surprise entry in the sprint race is Steph, like a trooper decided to take part although she hadn't been on a mountain bike.  Our friend Lisa loaned us a bike for Steph and a quick wetsuit rental at the Tri shop and voila!  As for me as per usual, biggest race division with 8 guys, mostly local, yours truly is the token Canadian in the Olympic race.  Stay tuned for the post race result and hope your enjoying your summer.  Happy trails!

Carpe Diem

Gear 2.0 Vega energizer sugar free

Vega is a great nutritional Canadian company.  Using all plant base ingredient, it makes it perfect for gluten free free diet weather it's by choice or by obligation.  Their energizer is a pre workout formula designed to give you some energy and focus.  I have used their regular formula but I have to admit I was pleasantly surprised by the sugar free version. I'm usually not a big fan of sugar free product but I found that the taste of lemon lime was almost the same weather in its original form or sugar free.  I usually use this pre workout formula when I'm tired before a workout or even before a race.  If  you are curious the regular formula has 12 g of sugar where has the sugar free has, you guest it, 0 g of sugar.  If you look for a pre workout formula, I would highly recommend Vega, personally lemon lime is my favorite flavor.  Stay tuned, Xterra Boise is coming in 10 days.  Happy trails!

Carpe Diem

From International to local: Squamish Triathlon

I race locally this past weekend, and on the road, to boots!  Squamish is about an hour from where I live and luckily for us, Steph friend Hope was kind to let us stay with them even though she had a full house! This meant for me that I didn't have to get up early to drive there and got a great meal out of the deal!  The Squamish Triathlon is has an Olympic and sprint option.  I entered the Olympic distance which consist of 1.5 km swim, 37 km( Olympic is usually 40) and a 10 km run which was in the trails instead of road run.  The weather has been hot up here and there was rumors that wetsuits might not be allowed.  I was praying this wasn't the case as my speed suit had ripped a few days prior and I need all the help I can get swimming.  This race has two separate transition so aft setting T2 Steph and I rode to T1, which was a great warmup.  I was happy to find out once at Alice lake that wetsuit was a go and I would be able to race with my sleek Synergy wetsuit.  Steph 5 year old nephew came with her parents, he just started doing Tri and wanted to see how a big race moved along.  I was in the second waves and as the gun went off, I settle in my usual swim pace, trying to find someone to draft off.  I would be able to draft a bit but not too much, I exited the water in about 28 min, average for me and headed on the bike.  The bike course is 4 loops, which consists of fast descent , one flat and one long incline.  Still makes for fast course and although I didn't ride my TT bike much this year, it was nice be on it.  I'd book the distance in slightly over and hour averaging 35.1 km/hr which I was happy with.  After a quick transition it was time for the trail run, which was a fast 5 km loop that had to be done twice.  On my second lap,one of the aid station had ran out of cups, I wasn't too happy.  I was happy with my final run time around 46 min or so.  I was unsure where I finished and was pleasantly surprise to find out I was second in my age group and 23 overall. Couldn't have ask for better conditions for a race and was happy to have  Steph, here parents and nephew to cheer me on.  Can't thank enough Caps Westwood cycle for always getting my bikes ready.  Next stop, Boise, Idaho for Xterra race on July 27, where it will be time to hook up with some of the usual suspects for another off road adventure.  Say tuned for Gear 2.0 coming up soon. Happy trails!

Carpe Diem

Olympus has fallen

I was greated this morning with a beautiful sunrise and what promise to be a hot day.  Race start was at 11 am so I knew it would be toasty by the time we exited the water.  Had breakfast with the usual suspect, Lisa and Allison, the only two other competitors from North America and good friends.  Mr Nicholas, Xterra Director extra ordinaire was already gone to the site.  I wasn't too sure which race kit I was going to wear.  I have my Canadian and Brand Champion one.  I always feel somewhat pretentious wearing my Canada kit but I opted for it today in Honor of my fiancée.  You see Steph was an Olympic athlete and competed in Greece in 2004 so it was only fitting I would honor her as she could not be here on this trip.

  I went to transition fairly early, wanting to get marked before the rush only to be told no body marking.  I went and set up my transition, went for a light run and was lucky to have pro Ben Allen loaning me a co2 cannister in case I flat.  Airlines don't let you fly with them although the plane is full of them, but I digress.  Water was nice and I was looking forward to race with my cool new Synergy wetsuit.  As the gun went off it was fairly crowded for quite a while, I got kicked on one of my goggle on the first lap and I kept being cut off by a swimmer who kept zigzagging on the second lap, clearly unable to sight.  I got off  the water in about 27 min or so.  I headed on the bike course, and no turtle today but plenty of racers.  First lap went well but the second lap was more laborious as the 3000 feet of climbing total would slowly take its toll.  In typical European fashion, this course was no different, fair amount of climbing and nothing too technical.  I'd book the 30 km in about 1:45. I headed out to the run at a nice 35 degree sunny day and I was flat, I didn't have any juice to give on the run.  Not too sure if I had pushed too hard on the bike or the fact that there were few aid station did not help.  I would booked the 10.4 km in about 58 min, good for a 3:10 overall.  I don't have a clue where I stand as no results were posted but knowing how was the European are, I doubt it will be a podium.  This is been a great race and a special one for me, you see my mother always had wanted to see Greece, unfortunately after she lost her battle to cancer last year, she would never get to see it.  This was my way to honor her memory so close to her birth day, I doubt she was not watching.  So that's why when I saw that Greece was having a race, despite the cost, I had to do it.

Time for some R&R for a few days.  I hope you enjoyed the journey, happy trails!

Carpe Diem

Scouting report from Xterra Greece

It has been an interesting journey so far, bike lost for 48 hours, at one point they couldn't even told me where it was.  Pro and good friend Ben Allen had even offered his bike so I could go practice.  I couldn't take the offer, I would be too scare to brake something.  What a classy move, one that I am convinced you would never see from road triathlete. I finally got my Gray bike today, 20 hours before the gun is set to goes off.  Relieved but also hoping that l wouldn't have more issues.  The bike course is a 2 x15 km lap, so I was able to build my bike quickly and head out.  This is a fast bike course, medium size climbs, couple of single tracks. I predict the pro will be just over an hour for the entire bike course.  I saw a turtle on the course! Had to stop and take a photo, hope the little guy won't be on the trail, someone could think its a rock! The run course wasn't fully mark but what I saw is again a fast course with not much elevation, 2 x 5.2 km.  I didn't swim today but the water temperature is not too cold and thank Zeus, it will be wetsuit legal.

People sometime wonder, why racing so far.  Racing in Greece has a special meaning for me this year but I digress, I'll talk more about that tomorrow.  It's almost bed time for me, forecast tomorrow, sunny and 30 degrees, just the way I like it.  Stay tuned for the post race blog.  The new Gray steed is excite to race, lets see what man and bike can do in a very big field of 32 racers in my age group alone and 180 total.  Hope you're having fun where ever you are and that you take the time to do something outside.  Happy trails!

Carpe Diem

Gear 2.0. Gray 20nine frame

I received my new frame just in time to have it built before my race.  Lets look at the set up:

I'm running SRAM components, XX rear deraileur, crank, shifters.  Front deraileur in X0 .  Breaks are Avid.  Wheel set Easton 90 with Kenda tires, Carbon Handle Bar, Thompson seat post and crank brother egg beater pedales. And off course Gray full Carbon frame, and its sweet looking.  Jason at Cap's Westwood maple ridge built that bike in no time.   I took it for a ride overall really love the bike, I feel more centered and was able to corner and climb better.  There were a couples of issue, the carbon fiber seat clamp, although wickedly awesome and light does not work for me.  I'm a big guy and it couldnt clamp the seat post in place which cause it to slide down. This was easily fixable by using the aluminum clamp from my other bike.  The fork was rattling a bit after the initial ride, again Jason was able to fix that after talking with the great people at Gray.  Can't wait to race the new steed but if you're in the market for a bike or a carbon 29 frame, you would be crazy not to consider Gray.  Happy trails!

Carpe Diem

Gear 2.0 Synergy wetsuit

I tried my brand new Synergy Hybrid wetsuit before packing it in for Greece.  I am please to report that its a great wetsuit. I feel really buoyant in it and the different thickness on the different part of the body really works well for me.  I definetly feel higher out of the water and since I'm not the greatest swimmer on the planet, it really helps me.  The shoulder wer quite supple as well and getting in and out was a breeze. My swim time seemed to have improved and i think that part of it is the fact that i Felt so buoyant. I highly recommend it if you are in the market for a new suit. My Hybrid  is packed and ready for the swim in Greece!  Happy trails!

Carpe Diem.

To the land of Olympus

It has been a while since I have posted anything race wise as I didn't have any races on the calendar until now.  In 6 days I will be packing my new bike and will be heading over to Greece for the first edition of Xterra Greece, part of the World and European Xterra circuit.  This is the first time that the Tribe will head over to Greece.  The race will take place at Lake Platsira , about 300 km North west of Athen.  I am excited has I have never been to Greece and also at the fact that I will be part of the first people to ever partake in an Xterra over in Greece.  I can't wait to see all the usual suspect racing and a chance to see old friends.  Stay tune for tale for the trail as well as the scouting report once on the ground. The gun goes off June 15 and it should be a great one!  Happy Trails!

Carpe Diem

Welcoming 2 new sponsors! Gray Cycle/ Synergy Wetsuit

It is with great pleasure that I am now part of the Gray and Synergy family for the 2013 season.  Of you remember back in March I raced in Guam and lost to Stefan Laursen, former Danish Olympic team triathlete and pro.  As it happen he is also the CEO of Synergy Wetsuits and Gray Cycles.  They were kind enough to get me on their team and starting today I will be riding a slick 29er Gray Carbon frame which I just received.  The crew at Cap's is furiously doing the change over and the new racing steed should be up running, just in time for my next race.  Now this frame is so light it's not even funny.  It weighs at 3.3 pounds ( to give you an idea, a BMX frame weighs on average 5 pounds)  I can't wait to take it for a spin.  I also received my brand new hybrid wetsuit and I am taking it for a swim tomorrow, stay tuned for my first impression.  So if you are in the market for a wetsuit, mtb frame, tri bike or carbon road wheel, take a look at what Synergy/Gray has to offer.  If you live in canada please look at these websites for all your needs www.synergywetsuits.ca and www.graycycling.ca

Carpe Diem

In homage of Boston

By now most of us are aware of what happened in Boston.  The despicable acts which created, in a matter of seconds, chaos, suffering, and death.  My thought are going to the family of the injured and the  one who lost love ones in the process.  What the suspect(s) failed to realize is that athletes are a different breed, it doesn't matter that their are pros or just racing for the fun of it, they have one thing in comment, resilience.  I believe that these events will only bring people together and they will continue to participate in such events in greater numbers, in defiance of such actions.  We can not let these people dictate our lives and live in fear.  Lastly, kudos to the emergency personnels, from EMT, fire and police, theses people rose to the occasion in trouble times.  May the suspects be brought to justice swiftly.  Ultimately, people came that day in the face of adversity to stare at evil and decided not to let it prevail.  So go out there, run, bike, swim or exercise, seized the day.  Happy trails!

Carpe Diem

Xterra Guam, redemption

This morning started like every other race morning, I woke up before my alarm, had oatmeal, a little coffee, got in my Tri suite and headed over to transition with Al. I was hoping that the bike would hold, for one race, wondering if all the required sacrifices made to the Xterra Gods would be enough.  Since no Harlem Xterra theme has been done yet , we  were all recruited for the video in transition before the start of the race.  Stay tuned for the results, I will post the link as soon as it is up.  After the dancing it was time to head in the water for a quick swim, where I ended colliding with Dave Torre from Guam causing him a slight cut on his forehead, I felt so bad, the race hadn't even started! Guam is a water start and once the gun went off, I was able to find a pair of feet and draft for the 2 laps, I would exit from the water in 27 min.  It was now time to head to the bike course.  One mile into the bike, on the road section, I hit a bump and one of my seat rail snap, putting my saddle at an angle.  I decided to keep going and not even looking at was wrong, I though to my self, really?  The first 6 km is a road climb and slowly but surely I passed some people.  I would get pass by 2 people on the bike but would catch on to one of them eventually.  The course was well marked and I was able to ride just about everything, except a slick coral up hill.  They added a section this year, riding by 2 WWII tanks, which mean that it added a 5 km overall to the distance.  My bike would survived although by the end my gears were starting to make some noise, I'd book the bike course in 1:53, a bit slower than last year but considering the add on, I was riding strong despite the seat issue.  It was now time for the run, my legs felt sluggish and I'm sure that the canter of my seat did not help.  The run in Guam starts on the road bu quickly ends up going down water falls, that's right, and then through two river sections.  Once out it wad through a bamboo forest, than back on the road with a final turn and running on the coast line.  I managed to give myself a good scrape and woud book the course in 3:16 , good for 21 overall, second in my age group.  I would find out that the guy who beat me in my age was a former Danish Olympic them swimmer and had recorded the fastest age grouper time.  So here we are, another March of Xterra over, it's almost time to go home.  I hope to be back next year, the sun and the racing is good for the soul.  I highly recommend people to come and enjoy theses races, they are something special.  Good friends Ben Allen and Jacqui Slack would win the pros.  Al had a great time and won his age group.  Hope you enjoy the journey, happy trails!

Carpe Diem

Less Han 24 hours to go, Xterra Guam

In less than 24 hours, I will be on the starting line with about 157 other Xterra racers.  It's been a difficult journey this time around as my bike as not been cooperating, broken handle bar and now heading tomorrow with a bent derailleur hanger, too soft to be straighten, no spare with me ( I have 2 but not for the right bike) and none on the island.  The bike shop here did awesome and make the gear worked.  I now hope the the carbon handle bar sacrifice to the Gods of Xterra will e sufficient for tomorrow.  The bike course is also dried up and with no rain in the forecast, if should be a pretty fun bike course.  So here we are, the end of the march of Xterra is near, time for a light workout and get ready for the race, time to forge on, race hard and see what happens.  Guam is such a great place, I really recommend that you consider race here and if you can, do the triple crown.  Stayed tune for the post race report, and if you wonder, I have number #52, happy trails!

Carpe Diem

Xterra Guam, Navy edition

My Friend Al and traveling companion is a retired Navy commander so we are lucky to be staying at the Navy lodge.  Today we went on base for an open water swim and what a sight.  We were able to swim along the reef and be treated by schools of fish, coral and the likes.  This beach on the Navy vase was awesome.  Looks like the sun is out and hopefully the bike course had dried from some of the rain we had over night.  Now if the dry weather can stick around.  After the ride its time to pick up our race packets and go to the pre race briefing.  48 hours to go, happy trails!

Carpe Diem

P.S. GO NAVY

Guam, when mud attacks!

After so delays getting over to Guam from Saipan, thanks to United airline, Al and I decided to go pre ride the bike course.  We met, Ben Jacqui and Cameron who had just rode a small section, too much mud they said.  We headed out with a couple others thinking we could get out of the muddy section.  Well that was a mistake, 2 hours and 45 min later, bike covered in red clay, we made it back.  The mud was so thick at times it would fully lock my wheels.  Say the least we all hope it dries off, if not, this will be a bike a run more than anything else!  Today I'm off to explore the run course, which mean I will be going down water falls and run or swim through a river.  Wish me luck!  Happy trails

Carpe Diem

It's not always about the bike

I raced in the Tagaman today, being a road Tri I needed to used a road bike, couldn't bring my carbon steed, airline makes traveling with one bike expansive, you can imagine two, so my TT bike had to stay at the stable.  With the help of Local racer Paul I got my hands on a giant, half aluminum, half carbon.  Add some clip TT bars loaned by Derek and installed by Al, pro Ben Allen and I at the last minute yesterday.  To top it all off I decided to race pro, why not.  I decided to wear my Canadian red kit today,  trying to represent Canada and hoping that my Fiancée former colours as an Olympian would bring me good luck as I was still desapointed about my previous week DNF.  It was another early morning with a 6:15 race start in the water.  After setting my transition I went and swim in the water.  The ocean was at low tide and there were spots where it was quicker to walk than to swim.  The pro field was getting its own start, not that it would make a huge deal for yours truly, swimming is not my forte.  As the gun went off, some swimmer went straight in the water where as other ran on the beach to get in direct line with the first buoy.  I liked that ideas so I went along for the ride.  It was a 3 laps swim, I would book the 2000 m in about 34 min, not a bad time for me.  The bike is usually one of my strong suite but with a borrowed bike and little practice time, I wasn't so sure how it would turn out.  It's a good thing this course didn't have too many major hill, as I found out half way at the big climb, the gear ratio was not too friendly, I could barley go up the hill!  The way back was fast, with a tail wind and a gradual descent, I was able to grab some nice speed.  I'd book the 60 km in about 1:48.  After a quick transition, it was time to head on the running course, a flat 15 km awaited, in the warm weather and over looking the blue ocean.  With a tail wind for the first part, things were going pretty well, sub 8 min. Miles on the first 2.5 miles or so.  After that I settled and finished the run in about 1:15 for. Total of 3:40.  This was a fun race, despite racing on borrowed bike and all.  I hope this race will server as a stepping stone for Xterra Guam next week, I will  be back on the mountain bike and hope to have a good race as it appears that my age group has one of the most participant.  Kudos to Al Moore who finished strong as well as Ben and Jacqui, both winning the pro division.  After all, it's not always about the bike.  Happy Trails!

Carpe Die

Tagaman, 17 hours to go

Another week has come and by and race day is almost upon us.  It has been raining on and off today but I was still able to ride and run with Al as we are both taking on the Tagaman race tomorrow morning.  The Tagaman is a road Tri consisting of 2000 m swim, 60 km road bike and a 15 km run.  The gun goes off at 6:15 which makes me wonder how the heck am I going to be able to see the turn buoy when the sun is not up for another 15 min ?! I was fortunate to have a road bike loaned to me for the race so we should see what happens.  Stay tuned for the race recap tomorrow, and for my westccoast friends, hops you're not drowning in the Pineapple Express.  Happy trails!

Carpe Diem

Hash run in Saipan

Yesterday was another beautiful day here, headed out for a ride with Al, still trying to figure out the road bikes so we took our mountain bike.  We rode to Bird Island view point and the Grotto and then back to the hotel.  I forged on for the Tank to Tank swim and had a solid one.  In the evening, we were invited to a Hash run.  The Hash run is a group of people who meet at a specific point.  Then the " hare" or course marker will leave 10 min ahead and will mark the trail with flour, sometimes sending you in wrong directions depending of the markings.  Add the fact that is complete darkness and that you have a flash light and that you are running in rugged country, that makes it interesting.  It was a cool run and at the end, a few beers and Gatorade awaits.  Today is a day off, picking up a carbon road bike that is being loaned to me for the race.  The weather has been nice but I have seen more rain than the previous years.  That said, it's still 30 degree plus.  The weekend is almost upon us which mean its almost race time.  Happy trails!

Carpe Diem

Week 2 in Saipan

The weekend has gone and by and another week of training is upon us.  Went and did the cool tank to tank swim yesterday as well as a 40 min run.  GL, Allison and Cathy departed early this morning leaving Al and I on the Island.  I got a replacement handle bar and today we went for a 43 km ride.  I should take delivery of my road bike today so with Al master skills as a bike fitter, I should be good for a longer ride tomorrow on the new bike.  We are invited with all the off Island competitor to a Mexican dinner tonight so it should be fun to see everyone.  The weather has been on and off with a fair amount of rain but it looks like the rest of the week should be good.  The people here are so friendly and so nice, I highly recommend everyone to come to Saipan and race Xterra!  More to come later this week.

Happy trail!

Carpe Diem

When it rains.....

Woke this morning, feeling good.  The hotel was a short distance from the start of the race, quick rack and was back in my room for breaks.  The usual pre race meal, 2 packets of apple cinnamon oat meal and I was good.  You could see rain could on the mountain, rain.... Really! As the gun went off, the current was fairly strong to the first turn, by the second turn, I needed to have a 50 degree angle just to stay in line.  After a rough swim, I was out of the water, bit slower than I though with a 33 min but I think the course was a bit long, the watch said 1.76 km.  up on the bike and it was raining, I was settling into a rhythm after the climb and was just heading into the single track when the improbable happened.  As I took a turn and went over concrete, I leaned into my left side and my carbon handle bar shattered in half.  That was it for me, race over.  DNF, first time in 3 years of Xterra racing and nothing I could do about.  Very desapointed, roll back down the hill and rack my bike.  I was shortly met by David from New Caledonia, his bike had failed him.  Allison also met us and ad derailleur issues.  We were allowed to run the run course and that was it for me.  2 more races including one more Xterra in Guam.  Happy trails!

Carpe Diem

#60 in your program

In about 12 hours I will be string my transition in the dark, awaiting the sunrise to get in the water.  This will be my third race in Saipan, it's where it all started for me at Xterra.  On the menu, 1500 m ocean swim, 32 km of mountain bike and a spectacular 10 km run through the jungle and old war caves.  18 pros on the starting lineup. It's always a small field here, about 60 racers for the full course, but people are so nice and friendly which make this place such a cool place to race.  It is far from home but it is worth it.  We shall see what tomorrow has in store.  Stay tuned for the post race report and I hope you will follow me.  Hapy trail!

Carpe Diem

Bike course, the back side

Today was another day on the bike course, decided to do the back side since we didn't do it yesterday.  After climbing the beloved Tapschau, it was time to the descent, with a mix of blade grass, lava rock, mud and wet coral rock ( it rain for 20 min!). The mud and wet coral is a dangerous combination and if it doesn't dry off on race day, one will have to be careful.  It's almost race day as we are a day ahead of North America. Tomorrow will be a short bike, short run and a swim.  The swim will be at the tank to tank which is pretty cool, where you get to swim to old Sherman tanks who got stuck during WWII.  Happy trails!

Carpe Diem

Hafa Adai

Well day 2 in the lush island of Saipan, rode most of the bike course today with Al and Allison.  Ran across a few old friend, pro Ben Allen, Jacqui Slack were also on the bike course. As well we ran across Renata as she was doing the run course.  The bike course in Saipan is hilly, technical at times and can be challenging.  We plan to ride the last little part of the course tomorrow, it is apparently very muddy and slippery so will have to see. After a bit of relaxing in the pool it was time for a 20 min open water swim.  The water was rough at time but it was nice to be back in the ocean.  I got some sun today and combined with the jet lag, I think it will be another early night.  Stay tuned for more of the action this week.  Happy trails!

Carpe Diem

March of Xterra part Deux

Well I'm half way through my flying waiting in Tokyo for my next flight to Saipan.  Looking forwarsd to some sun, training, racing and seeing old friends.  Wish my lovely fiancée was on this trip with me.  Stay tuned for all the action and the scouting report for the first of 3 races in the pacific. Happy trails!

Carpe Diem

Soon to be off, the start of the season!

As I'm getting ready to leave this weekend for 2 of my favourite races, I realise how quick this year has already been moving.  I will be racing in Saipan on March 9 for my third Xterra Saipan, than the following week I will be racing for the first time in the Tagaman, also in Saipan.  This race is a road tri which consist of 1.9 km swim, 60 km bike and 15 km run.  I than will move on to Guam for Xterra Guam and to run, by far, the coolest cross country course in the circuit, in my humble opinion.  Yep, that should shock start the system and the season.  It is always difficult for us in North America to head over to the pacific to race as it is hot and humid.  That said, I am looking forward to the sun, beach and the fact that I will be able to train, race with good friends and some of the pro's I have got to know along the way.  So stay tuned as I will give you the scouting report and race results as I move in that awesome part of the world which is call the Northern  Marianas Islands.  Where will you feet take you this year?  Happy trails!

Carpe Diem

Team Vega

We are well into the new year and for some, including yours truly, the first race of the season is fast approaching.  In months time I will be migrating back for three week to Saipan and Guam for a couple of Xterra races and a road triathlon.  Racing in that part of the world has its challenges, especially if you are coming from North America.  This will be my 3 year in Saipan and my second year in Guam.  I'm looking forward to the sun, the beach and be able to connect with the Xterra crew, pro's and good friends such as the Moore Family as well as the Brown's.  On a personal front I have been accepted with Team Vega, Vega is  a great  nutritional company based in BC.  They use plant base product and accommodate a lot of the particular diet requirement out there.  Looking forward to show their product and use them while I'm racing around the globe.  feel free to look their website at http://myvega.com  stay tuned for some product review in the up coming weeks.  Happy Trails!

Carpe Diem

Happy 2013, where will the road take you?

It's been a while since I posted on my blog, it's time to get back at it for the 2013 season! I hope you had all a great holiday and lots of new adventure and PB in 2013.  As for me, I'm slowly looking into what races and where I will be going.  I can tell you that I will be heading back to Saipan and Guam this year for  Xterra races.  It's hard not wanting to go to that part of the world when the promise of sunny weather, heat and beaches are but a certainty.  It's also a good way to jump start the season.  I have other race planned but I will talk about them when it get closer.  I'm slowly getting back into training mode and hope to be ready for March.  Remember that you are new at a sport or a season vet, it always take a bit of time to get back into shape, especially after the holidays.  So go out there, and start 2013 with a bang!  Happy Trail!

Carpe Diem