The Journey to a Texas Ironman

Hi Everyone,

This week was a rest week after the hills of Branson 70.3. The post race aches were minimal and the knee appears to be on it’s way to healing. Things are looking up and that makes me a happy girl.

After recovery swims and bike, the weekend topped off with Sherpa duty. This weekend it was Dr. Crane’s turn to knock out a 70.3 at the RedMan half iron distance in Oklahoma City. It was quite fun to help package up, drive, carry stuff, calm nerves and watch her give the ole 70.3 course a whirl. We also had a special guest this trip. Caitlin, Dr. Crane’s daughter also tagged along and was our official “Sherpette” in training.

As we rolled into Oklahoma, the sky changed from cloudy and rain to clear and sunny. This was a grand improvement in comparison to last year’s downpour at RedMan causing a race delay and parts of the bike course were underwater. That was my first 70.3 and definetly one I will soon not forget.

Race morning, water temp was 74 degrees and wetsuits were in demand for the swim. RedMan is a great race for first timers to experienced triathletes. The beginning length of the swim is pretty shallow allowing athletes to stand and take a break. The slight breeze and clouds kept things comfortable for those watching the athletes one by one swim the swim then head to transition.

This year, the bike course was altered a tad and apparently had a few more rolling hills. All in all, as the athletes crossed the line to head into transition 2, most looked happy and relatively fresh even though the temperature was rising and the clouds pretty much cleared from the sky. We caught Dr. Crane rolling into transition and she was ready for that run!

During the majority of the run portion, Mother Nature was being a bit painful to those trying to get their 13.1 miles completed. There were a lot of folks suddenly not looking so fresh as they did after the swim and bike portions of the race. For the family and friends watching their athletes, many sought out shady areas or brought there own means of shade ranging from umbrellas to canopy tents. It proves to be a long day for the spectators but every minute they are there means so much to the athletes.

As Caitlen our Sherpette followed me throughout the day tracking her Mom through each discipline, it was heart warming to watch this little girl look up to her Mom and see the pride she has for her each time we found her on the course. I see a strong triathlete in the future if Caitlen chooses this route. She is definitely a Dr. Crane mini me. ;)

By the end of the race, I think Caitlin and I were just as exhausted as the athletes. Is being a Sherpa worth it? You bet it is. Dr. Crane is in one piece which was my goal for the weekend and our Sherpette is ready for her first triathlon next month. I guess the apple really doesn’t fall far from the tree.

Talk to you next week,
Janet