The Long and Lonely Road

Jun 13, 2014 | My Iron Year, Training Daze

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Lynne Tapper

I am a lifelong endurance athlete with the dual goal of training and racing until my bones turn to dust and sharing that passion with as many people as possible.

My nightly routine has been to check the weather for the next day to mentally prepare for rain or sun (yeah, right!).  Last night I noticed that the weather report for Friday was looking grim (rain and thunderstorms…come on!).  I made a last-minute decision to do my long ride and short run today.  I knew that no one would be able to ride with me on such short notice and as early as I needed to go. I also know that it’s good for me to ride alone now and then because the race is a solo adventure and I should get used to it.

I set my alarm for 6:30 am. I couldn’t move. I was tired. While I have been able to get in my training, this week’s family activities were a priority.  I was feeling it. I had swum 50 minutes yesterday at 7:00 am and then ran 13.6 miles at 9:30 am.  Other “stuff” had me going non-stop until 10pm!  Yikes.

But I got up. I got my water bottles and fuel prepared, ate breakfast and I was out the door at 7:45 am.  I know that’s not early for many others, but it is for me.

As I started on my ride, I got bored pretty quickly.  The sun was nowhere to be found and it was gloomy.  At about mile 12, I found myself hoping I would get a flat tire.  At least then I’d have something to do. And then maybe I wouldn’t have to do this nearly 4-hour ride.  I couldn’t believe I was thinking that! What’s wrong with me?I love to ride. I know that the weather has been getting me down. I found myself yearning for the warm sunshine to beat down on me.  I know, I know…be careful what you wish for.

While I was alone with my thoughts for 4 hours, I found myself questioning why I’m doing this.  What will my time for the race be? What will it be like to see my family at the finish line? Will I cry? Will I be happy? Will I want to do it again?  I’m telling you, it gets boring out there.  Perhaps that’s why I like riding with other people…I don’t’ have to be alone with thoughts.

The truth is I am enjoying the training.  That’s a good thing because I’m doing so much of it.  Even though there are days that I feel the fatigue more than others and would like a little more sleep, I’m proud of how far I’ve come. The negative thoughts do pass, and I’m able to get out there and enjoy the journey.

In case you’re wondering, I didn’t get a flat tire and I rode 60 miles!

Hello pillow!

i

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