What began as a bet from my employer, that he could beat me at the IM distance, turned into an all out attempt to push my body to it's limits. 3 months of building with the guidance of my coach Brian Maiorano from Triathlon Lifestyle Coaching, I reached a level of fitness I didn't know I could. Riding my 3rd century ever under 5 hours with over 6500' of climbing, was a milestone that turned my motivation up a notch. Running up to 30 miles a week and riding over 180 was a big load for me. I was getting stronger day by day, and at the pace I was swimming, running, and riding my goals were well within sight.
Unfortunately, just over 3 months into my training I was struck by another cyclist on a ride, and I ended up with a broken clavicle. After about a week and a half in a sling trying to figure out life without my right arm, yesterday was finally the day where I met the Orthopedic Surgeon. In this week and a half, I had plenty of time to do my research and figure out what my options where. It was an easy decision with the assistance and recommendation of two surgeons, to go through with having a plate surgically installed on my clavicle. This gives me a better chance of a full recovery without any future complications than the alternative of just waiting it out. Tuesday the 1st of March I will go under the knife and begin a quick road to recovery.
At this point I am very torn at which way to turn with just over 10 weeks until Ironman St George. I would really like to push through the recovery with lots of time on my trainer and "running" on an elliptical. On the other hand, my goals for this race are in question at this point. I won't be able to swim for at least 6 weeks. With this, I would be afforded 2-3 weeks of rehab and getting up my speed and endurance to be ready for a 2.4 mile swim.
With the great uncertainty of recovery time and a lack of help from IM, it is now a question of costs. The race is already paid for. Lodging and travel will be an additional cost. Not to mention the cost for my family who planned to be there to support me.
I will get back on my bike (trainer) shortly after my surgery and get started on regaining my strength on the bike, and see what I can do with running.
I'm looking forward to a challenge and making my final decision further down the road. I couldn't do this without the awesome support system I have. My family, my friends, my coach, and most importantly my girlfriend Katie. Thank you, thank you, thank you... Here we go.. Faster, Stronger, Awesomer...
jake
