| History |
| I started running in January of 2004 to get in shape. I had gained too much weight and felt terrible. I was able to run my first 5K 3 months later. 2 years later and 50 lbs lighter, I have continued to push for greater goals and have run 5 marathons and I am training for an Iron distance triathlon now. Everyday I wake up with a positive attitude towards life, training and my future. |
| Marathons Completed |
Arizona RockNRoll 2007
Salt Lake City Marathon 2006
Steamboat Marathon 2005
Boulder Backroads 2005
Las Vegas Marathon 2005 |
| Why do I Tri? |
| Should be why do I want to Tri? I want to see just how far I can push myself. With everyday I am in the best shape of my life. And I'm never going back!!!! |
| Sponsors |
Elite Family Fitness-Canon City
BB's Tanning and Massage
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| Scheduled Races |
Littlefoot Triathlon
Bolder Boulder 10K
Highland Ranch Sprint
Boulder Long Triathlon
Redman Iron Distance
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I Don’t Wanna Stop
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| Oh No, Snow |
| January 31, 2007 |
The weather outside is frightful, just right for training outdoors. If you are a snowman.
Well, I guess it will be about another week at least until I will be training outdoors again. Temps are going to be dangerously low for the next 3 days. Snow is predicted for the next 3 days as well. It is snowing as I type this blog out. I don't think I will every get to ride outside again.
WWWWAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA
Should I get some cheese to go with my Whine!!!!!!!!
There is some good news though. Tonight I will be in the pool coaching again. I have been hearing stories about these women in town that have been training furiously in the water trying to improve technique. I hope that my coaching will help them to become excellent swimmers. With the weather turning bad again, I look forward to my pool time as a time of relaxation and meditation. I hope to get a few pictures tonight of the training and get them posted tomorrow.
I was back on my bike/trainer this morning for 50 minutes. I tried pushing myself as much as possible. The trainer does get real boring though. I don't know if there are any ways of making it more exciting. It's still better than going to the gym and using a stationary bike. I do wish that my gym would get a spinning class started. Being in a class of 10+ people pushing each other around would be great. They do have Indoor Trainer classes up in Colorado Springs, but that is quite a trip to make just for a one hour session. I guess I'll just continue to struggle along until the weather warms up. Till tomorrow. Ciao! Ci Vediamo |
posted by Mondo @ 12:52 PM   |
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| Swim Drills and More |
| January 30, 2007 |
After not getting much sleep last night because of a sick donkey, ( don't ask ). I was back in the pool this morning. I was pretty tired by the time I got to the pool, but once my feet hit the water I felt a lot better.  The first 200 yards felt real smooth. I have relaxed even further into the water and have been hiding my head even further into the water. Almost swimming underwater. I have cut my stroke count from 15 to 12 to get across the pool. And I noticed that my entry is very quiet. I started on the drills next and worked on skating, underskating, zipperskate, double zipperswitch, and sculling. I really am feeling a greater balance since I started pushing myself a little deeper. So called "laying on my lungs".  I then started my intervals. I really concentrated today on form and not on speed. I was suppose to do 4x100 intervals with 30 sec rest breaks. However, I lost count and think I might have finished with about 8-9 x 100 drills. I just felt really good in the water today. Cool down consisted of another 200yards of very slow swimming. I am pretty happy with today's workout. I know I have a long way to go before I will be ready for my Ironman. But I am well on my way. I have had some more improvements to my race bike. "Apollo" is looking totally geeked out for his coming out party. I will have a new seat for him next week and he will be ready to go. I received my aero-bottle bracket yesterday and got that put on last night. Sweet! I am shaking with enthusiasm at getting to ride again. This really is the "Year of ME" Pensare grande, per credere grande, l'atto grande, ed i risultati saranno grandi !!!!!!!! |
| posted by Mondo @ 12:31 PM |
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| Weekend Training |
| January 29, 2007 |
 This was a pretty good weekend overall. I did have to work a graveyard shift on Friday night so Saturday was shot for training. I slept my usual 3 hours after getting home. I can never sleep during the day. If it is daylight outside I feel that a person should be up and running. Literally.
Saturday afternoon I got to drive up to Cripple Creak Colorado in the fog and snow and watch 3 high school basketball games. It was pretty fun. Our team lost 2 out of the 3 games. the other team had larger guys playing. It got pretty ugly at the end.
Sunday I got to get back on my trainer. I put in the Chris Carmichael tape again. this time I was able to complete the workout. WOW. It kicked my ass. If I could fit that in about 4 times per month I will be cycling a lot faster at the races. My weight has been steadily going down again since starting up regular training again. I am about 7 pound short of my race weight. It shouldn't take more than another month to get there. I feel better when I am down around 170.
The weather is suppose to take a turn for the worst again this week with cold temperatures and snow all week long. So riding outside is out of the question again. I am really getting bummed. I look forward to longer, warmer, drier days to come. Thank goodness I can train indoors, I don't know what I would do without a trainer for my bike. I need to look for a treadmill for next winter, that would pretty much give me the leeway to run or ride indoors at any time.
I'll be back in the pool tomorrow. I have a pretty big set to do in the morning. I also finished a training schedule for the ladies that I am training. I did not make it easy on them, but it isn't real hard either. I would call it challenging. I will be meeting them on Wednesday night for a training session as well as on Friday. Once they have the technique down then they can start pushing some yards and getting a rhythm. For now, I'll just keep tri 'ing. CIAO! |
| posted by Mondo @ 3:52 PM |
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| Treadmilling |
| January 25, 2007 |
BORING !!!!!!!!!
I really hate running on a treadmill. Even with a TV on or and IPod stuck in my ears, being on a treadmill is like a slow death.
But, the road are still very icy and the mornings pretty cold. So, in order to train you must make sacrifices.
I finished my scheduled training for this morning. 30 minute run with 6 x 1min fartleks. This was the first day back on my legs since the Marathon. At first I was pretty stiff and wasn't sure if I should push as hard as I was scheduled. I decided about half way to quit whining and finish my training with a 110% effort.
Ever notice that even if you don't feel like training at first, you sure feel great after completing the training. Knowing that you beat back the little pessimistic voice in your head. It's definitely a morale booster.
Tomorrow morning is another swim day with the 5 newbie swimmers. I have heard rumor around town that they have all been training really hard. I look forward to seeing how much they have improved. I will be adding 2-3 more drills tomorrow for them to practice. It gives me a chance to improve as well while doing drills with them. hard to believe that 1 year ago I could hardly make it from one end to the other of the pool.
Let's continue the journey! |
| posted by Mondo @ 1:21 PM |
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| Waterlogged |
| January 23, 2007 |
Back in the pond this morning - well the warm indoor version.
I am feeling much better with my cold and woke up ready to take on swim training this morning.
I arrived at the pool and was surprised to find one of my tri-students in the water working on drills and swimming. She already looks better in the water than she did last week. And she let me know that the other ladies are busy practicing as well. Nothing makes me feel better than knowing that someone else is as enthusiastic with training as I am.
After a 200 yd warm up I concentrated on drills again. I worked on underskate, double underskate, breathing exercises, kick drills etc. I then got in 5x100 freestyle at a steady pace. I am feeling much more comfortable in the water. Even my flip turns are coming around. WOW, practice make perfect - or at least close to perfect.
The weather is pretty nice this week, but it loos like more snow for the weekend. I will be glad to get back on the road and out of the gym. Indoor trainers are OK but they sure don't give the same resistance as out on the road. For now though, it's a nose-to-the-grindstone approach to training. When the weather gets better and I get on the road I should see an improvement from last year. CIAO |
| posted by Mondo @ 12:19 PM |
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| The Drive is Back |
| January 22, 2007 |
Hello, Good Morning World !!!!!
Well the post marathon weakness and illness is finally going away. By Friday I was pretty sick with a sinus infection and sore throat, fever, chills etc. I guess I was pretty worn down from my marathon. My legs are finally back in shape and over the weekend I was able to push some miles on my trainer.
Hey, Great News. I have met up with 5 athletes who want to train for a sprint triathlon. These 5 female athletes have run a 1/2 marathon and want to learn how to complete a tri. Awesome. I hope that I can coach them along to a successful sprint triathlon in about 14 weeks. We met in the pool for the first time on Friday. They can all get from one side to the other with a freestyle stroke but could use some coaching and tips in how to swim a little smoother. I hope that I can help them out. I may not be the best swimmer but I do feel that I have learned a lot in the last year. The coaching helps me out as well since I am concentrating on drills again.
The weather has not been cooperating here in Colorado so cycling has been indoors. I don't mind the trainer as much as I used to. I am using one of Chris Carmichaels Training Tapes - Time Trial Workouts. What a workout, whew. I have completed the 60 minute ride and I was really worn out at the end. He likes to keep the cadence up above 100 for the intervals and steady rides of 90-100. That is faster than I am use to, but it sure works out the lungs and legs. But I can't wait to get on the road. I have yet to take out "Apollo" on the road.
I am continually working on my training plan. And now I am working on a basic sprint triathlon program for the newbies. I feel that developing a training plan with a goal at the end of a specific period is very important to fuel the energy that it takes to train harder every day. Training day in and day out without a goal gets too mundane. As I explained in past blogs, now that I have my goal in August, no workout is just completed. Each workout has to have a purpose and have 110% of concentrated energy applied to it. I don't plan on just finishing triathlons this year, I plan on competing. Looking ahead in my training program for this year, I can see one thing for certain. I am going to be in the best shape of my life. Look out world!!!!!!!
Guardare fuori il mondo |
| posted by Mondo @ 2:22 PM |
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| Lesson Learned |
| January 17, 2007 |
Well Phoenix is over.
The Rock and Roll Marathon lived up to it's billing.
Everything went off without a hitch - Expo, Bands, Race, Refreshments, everything was awesome. Althought there were over 30,000 runners, the volunteers made all the runners comfortable as possible. Hat's off to Devine Racing for another great race.
RACE REPORT
So, I ran the race. I planned on running the race and enjoying myself. My training since Rim Rock has been spotty at best. My mileage in the low 20's per week. So how did I feel on the marathon.
I felt like crap. That's how. I learned a valuable lesson over the weekend. Don't run a marathon unless you train for one. I did real good for the first 13 miles or so but after that it was all downhill. I was able to keep the cramps at bay with salt packets but my legs were just getting trashed. It's been 3 days now and I still feel like I'm walking on hamburger legs. I tried to slow down and "enjoy" myself but the pain was too much for that.
I even pushed real hard for the last 1.5 miles to the finish. Why? Because I got tire of looking at the same runner ahead of me that would speed up then drop back then pass again. Got that is aggrevating. So I decided not to let him beat me to the finish. I think my best time was that last 1.5 miles. Although at the finish I could no longer feel my legs or feet.
My finishing time was around 4:54:00. Not great, not anywhere close to where I want to be. But hey, on the bright side - I finished under 5 hours with hardly any training. maybe I'll take on Chicago later this year after my Timberman. I should be in great shape by then. I will have pictures soon. Ciao |
| posted by Mondo @ 4:23 PM |
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| Packing Day |
| January 11, 2007 |
Thursday Finally - 3 days till the Arizona Marathon.
Got to get work done with first, then I can get home and finish packing for my trip to Phoenix. What to bring, what to leave. I have checklists all around my house. I am leaving for 3 days, but my packing list is big enough to climb Everest for a week. So what's important to take and what to leave. Let's explore this subject.
Race Gear:
This stuff I will hand carry on the plane. I know it won't get lost and if my luggage gets lost I can still run.
Shorts
Tri-top
Socks
Sneakers
Hat and Sunglasses - should be pretty bright in Phoenix
Suntan Lotion - sure don't want to burn
Forerunner GPS with heartrate - just so I know how many more miles of suffering I have left.
Water belt with gels and salt packets - I really, really don't want to cramp on this one.
IPod - I usually don't wear one when racing but I like it for warming up.
AntiGravity Rocket boots - Oh, just wishing. 
Otherwise what else is there, Pre and post race supplies include:
BenGay Lotion - industrial tub
Advil - 500 tab bottle
Beer - great recovery drink
Bandaids for blisters
Ice for post race bath
Beer - did I mention Beer
I think that covers it - extras include:
New editions or Triathlete Mag and Runners World
My Journal
Camera
Cliff Bars for the flight out and back - Airline food sucks
Wheelchair - just kidding
Everyone I have talked to has praised the Arizona Marathon as one of the best run in the nation. I am looking forward to finding out on my own if this rings true. After this weekend it is nose to the grindstone for Triathlon training.
Lasci che la festa cominci, Ciao
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| posted by Mondo @ 12:41 PM |
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| Trainer Day |
| January 10, 2007 |
Well after a few great days of sleep I am finally feeling better. The weather outside is absolutely one of the best days this year so far. Clear and sunny in Colorado with a high around 50 degrees. The calm before another snowstorm starting tomorrow.
This morning I was back on my trainer. 45 minutes of steady moderate cycling. I put on 2 shirts and my waist belt to increase the heat and help get my weight down to where it should be for race season. I am not having any back pain from being in the aero position. I have been stretching more, which may be helping. Along with a slight change in my seat height. I am looking forward to getting back on the road thought. The trainer is nice but wow is it ever boring.
Tonight I start packing for Phoenix. I think the weather will hold for the flight to get out on Friday. It may be a little late but as long as I can get out I'll be happy. The weather in Phoenix is suppose to be perfect for running with a high around 55 degrees on Sunday. So with any luck at all I should be set to go. I'll get some pictures while I am out there and post them next week.
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| posted by Mondo @ 12:44 PM |
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| Snowy Future |
| January 09, 2007 |
I am not complaining, really I'm not. Here in Colorado we have had a years worth of snow already. The weather has not been bad in between each storm but it seems every week we have another storm system coming in.
This week is no different. The problem is that I have tickets to fly out to Phoenix on Friday from Denver to go and run the Arizona Rock and Roll marathon. I am looking forward to it but I am not looking forward to spending a day on the road in the snow trying to get out of here. If it wasn't for that little problem, I would look forward to more snow. I am getting lot's of mileage on my snowmobile and snowblower this year. This will be good for the whole area of Colorado, the drought has been a nagging problem that should be fixed by this winter's moisture.
Speaking of moisture - back in the pool this morning. I totaled only around 1200 yards, but that is in line with my training plan. The plan has me doing 6x25 yards of drills which is more than I normally do along with 4x25 kick drills, 200 yards of warm up and cool down and today there was 4x100 freestyle. I am still feeling pretty good about my stroke and today I started feeling that I am able to grab and hold the water better. My flip turns still need alot of work though. I feel real clumsy trying to do a flip turn and also get real short of breath after doing one. I guess practice will help that out.
I am so looking forward to being able to get my bike back on the road. I have not been able to ride since updating my new bike with the new aero bars and brakes. What a difference it make with my position on the bike. I have been on the trainer with it but really want to get on the road.
So, anyway, hopefully this wekend will go as planned. Phoenix should be a great run and although I have not really trained for a marathon in the past 3 months, I feel that I should be able to get through it. I look forward to listening to the bands and the crowds during the run, not to forget the Expo which is always fun. It can snow as much as it wants but not until after I fly out of here. For now Ciao. |
| posted by Mondo @ 12:48 PM |
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| January 04, 2007 |
 This week is the first base training week. Back in the pool, back on the bike and back on my feet.
Unlike the last month - training now means something again. It is important to have a goal when training. Otherwise training becomes mundane and loses focus. Let's remember that if you just want to stay in shape and not race it is OK to go through the days of exercise like a robot - doing the same thing over and over with no changes. Doing this is still great for the body. But when a goal is set - training and exercise becomes focused. You look at the future with anticipation.
That is where I am at this week. Focusing and concentrating on the future of my season. Looking forward to my a-race with the anticipation of a child waiting for Christmas.
My equipment is ready, my journal started, my nutrition plan formulated, my training plan complete. My body, mind and spirit set to jump into anything. This is my breakout year. I can feel it in my heart. If I have to do it alone I will, if I have company that's great.
None of my workouts have no purpose. Each one has it's meaning, each one needs 110% effort. this mornings short run on the treadmill was different than those last month. The TV turned off, the speed increased, the focus to finish the run with a goal in mind. Oblivious to those around me, in the zone. That is the way it needs to be - In the Zone. |
| posted by Mondo @ 1:34 PM |
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| Here We Go Again |
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This week is the first base training week. Back in the pool, back on the bike and back on my feet.
Unlike the last month - training now means something again. It is important to have a goal when training. Otherwise training becomes mundane and loses focus. Let's remember that if you just want to stay in shape and not race it is OK to go through the days of exercise like a robot - doing the same thing over and over with no changes. Doing this is still great for the body. But when a goal is set - training and exercise becomes focused. You look at the future with anticipation.
That is where I am at this week. Focusing and concentrating on the future of my season. Looking forward to my a-race with the anticipation of a child waiting for Christmas.
My equipment is ready, my journal started, my nutrition plan formulated, my training plan complete. My body, mind and spirit set to jump into anything. This is my breakout year. I can feel it in my heart. If I have to do it alone I will, if I have company that's great.
None of my workouts have no purpose. Each one has it's meaning, each one needs 110% effort. this mornings short run on the treadmill was different than those last month. The TV turned off, the speed increased, the focus to finish the run with a goal in mind. Oblivious to those around me, in the zone. That is the way it needs to be - In the Zone. |
| posted by Mondo @ 11:42 AM |
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| January 03, 2007 |
HAPPY NEW YEAR
WELCOME TO 2007
THE YEAR OF-------
-------- ME ------------
That's right, The Year of Me. You heard it first right here.
Not the Year of the Monkey, Horse, Mouse or T-Rex. Nope.
This is the year of ME.
Now you might take this as a selfish, self-centered view of the new year, but that is not what I am talking about.
This is the year of ME - improving myself physically, mentally and spiritually. This is the year of great improvment in everything about me.
Let's break it down a little:
Physically ----
This year I have already worked on an intense training schedule. The first 3 months are geared towards an Olympic Distance Triathlon. I am treating it as a warm up to the Half-Ironman Training that will start on April 1st. At the same time I have comitted to making regular journal entries everynight. I am doubling up on my weight and ab training and focusing on my swim technique more. I don't plan on just finishing the Timberman 70.3, but actually competing. This will prepare me for a great year in 2008 as I plan on competing at the Florida Ironman.
 Mentally ----
This year I am working on the mental organization of my life. Keeping up with journal entries and training logs is only a small part of it. I am working hard at improving my work space, organizing my life at home and paying attention to the details of life. Organization of my home life is a big part with me concentrating on less procrastination and more work being done. Also I am going to be more optimistic and not allow the moods of those around me to drag me down. No Matter what I am going to improve and enjoy my life the way I want to. And being a Triathlete is a great part of that. I have found new potential in myself.
Spiritually ----
Here I have been lacking for years. Last month I started attending church again and at first thought lightning was going to strike. But after a month - no lightning. This year I want to grow spiritually and become a better person. I find myself asking God for help with my training and races. Since I am talking to him on those occasions, I should get to know Him better. The coming months of this year will be very hard physically and mentally. I will need all the help I can get. Life is too short. We must make the best of it, and never let down our guard.
So let's get the Journey started. Have a Great Year. I know I will. |
| posted by Mondo @ 2:09 PM |
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| About Me |
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Name: John Maynard
Home: Canon City, Colorado, United States
About Me: In 2008 I completed a full Ironman. Since that time I have continued to keep myself in a decent shape with running and hiking. As the years have rolled on so has my midsection. With my 50th birthday behind me I have embarked on another journey in life. This journey will take me into my next decade in the best shape of my entire life. It's time to kick life into overdrive.
See my complete profile
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