Ironman Taiwan: Coach's Report

Just wanted to share a few thoughts about Laurel's win at Ironman Taiwan since people don't often hear reports from sister/coaches. This is a big deal for us. Not just because Laurel won her first Ironman or that she did so in such brutal conditions, but because she followed through on a goal she set for herself several months ago. 

She wanted an Ironman title and worked for it. She increased her riding volume (with many long, solo rides from New York City to the New Paltz), she added more strength running (pushing a baby jogger up hills), and we put a big emphasis on fueling with healthy, gluten-free meals. 

But most importantly, she didn't stop believing in herself even when her performances in shorter races suffered over the last month or so. She was able to shake off a disappointing race at the Nations Tri where her legs wouldn't respond to the 6:00 pace she tried to run on 7:00 pace trained legs. And then just a week ago in Malaysia, she struggled in the heat, causing her to barely finish after building a huge lead on the swim and bike. Instead of doubting herself, she was able to take these races for what they were: just part of the plan. An essential part of being equipped to overcome challenges and performing like a champion when it really mattered.