Racing at the ITU Long Course World Championships in L’Orient France was somewhat of a milestone for me. Back in December I made “France” a goal, and since then, all my training has been built around 1) qualifying for, and 2) peaking for the big race in France. There were certainly other important races along the way this season, but France has been my main driving force.

I have traveled to all corners of the US for races, but France would be my first big International race. Having to cross 9 time zones to get there was a bit of a concern, but my body handled it very well. I adjusted fairly quickly to the time change and within a couple days, felt good and rested. Being so far from home, in a completely new country, did feel a bit strange. I felt like I was in more of a “vacation” mode than “race” mode. I had to keep reminding myself why I was there. First … race well, then … enjoy the trip!

When Race Day came, I felt confident and ready to go. Conditions were nearly perfect. The 2 loop swim course started with a dive off the pontoon. I took off and felt like I was doing great, holding a good position, out with the fast girls! But, that only lasted until the first buoy. At the turn I lost my position in the group and it was all downhill from there. I was passed by what seemed like EVERYONE; I had trouble staying on any feet and just couldn’t seem to find my feel for the water. By the time I finally exited the water I was MAD! I didn’t come all this way (or train all season) to have a pathetic race!

On the bike I was determined to make up ground because I knew I was much further down than I should be coming out of the swim. I rode like crazy, pushing hard, riding like it was a 40K time trial, trying to pass as many girls as I could. My bike was fueled by anger and I knew I was taking a chance pushing this hard … I still had 20K to run after this. It didn’t matter though – I made up my mind to ride my guts out and leave it all out there on the bike course. Half way through the double out and back 80K course, I realized I was having FUN and riding hard and fast!

Off the bike and onto the run. Yup, as expected my legs were quite heavy, but I still had to get after the run. It was a three-loop run course with no mile or kilometer markers, so I just took it one loop at a time. I didn’t take my splits but I felt like I gradually built speed on each lap. A couple girls FLEW past me like I was standing still, but I managed to pass a few myself. Going into the last loop, Dave was yelling at me that there were a couple girls just 45 seconds ahead. My initial thought was, “45 seconds? That’s too far”, then I quickly realized that I just needed to get after it and go for it. On that last loop I worked on having fast feet / quick turnover; I used my arms, driving back with my elbows to get up the hills (who said this was a flat course?! I think the hills grew a little longer and steeper on each loop!).

I worked hard and eventually caught those two girls with just about 2K to go. I knew the finish line was close, but I also knew I didn’t want anyone blazing past me with a finishing kick, so I tried to push through the finish.

8 th place at LC Worlds was a better finish than I expected, but the best part was knowing that I really put my heart into it and raced my absolute best, and was able to work my way back up after a disappointing start.

Following the race, Dave and I enjoyed 10 days in France. We hit the Loire Valley and Paris – it was a wonderful trip highlighted by fantastic French food! Biking through the countryside, enjoying sidewalk cafes and fresh baguettes at the many boulangeries along the way made for a very memorable trip. The time away from the daily grind was a nice chance to reflect on the season and to really appreciate that I am able to dedicate so much time and energy to triathlon, and that I have the good health to do so.

Welcome, Finis and www.swimyourbest.com - thanks for joining my support crew! Continued thanks to Sugoi, Discover Bicycles, GU, and Shortt Supply.

Thanks for reading and for your incredible encouragement and support.

Erin