For the last 15 years or so we have made an annual spring trip south to Florida for vacation. We typically stay with my in-laws in the Bradenton Beach area. This is just south of Tampaon the gulf coast. It is always a nice reprieve and nice to enjoy some warm weather and relaxation. This year would not be much different except that I would be incorporating my training into our vacation agenda. I was actually looking forward to this as our weather had been so miserable. During the trip, my training was really no different than at home except for my surroundings. After 15 years I had already had a good feel for the area and my way around for some good training. For the bike, I actually rented a nice Specialized Roubiax from a local shop. Ringling Bicycles was nearby and gave me great service at a rate much cheaper than trying to get my bike down there. That would have been nearly impossible and very expensive since we were flying. I rented it for a week and not only did my normal workouts but also did several outside of my plan just to get more use of the bike and to enjoy the opportunity to ride in such surroundings. This is a really great area to ride as there is a multitude of dedicated bike lanes and in most cases I was breezing past cars that were stuck in endless lines of traffic. The only real challenges is the constant sea breeze that seems to always be in you face and the tourist or retirees who don't look for bikes. It was a great time and put a smile on my face. My swims were a bit less frequent even though I was in and around a pool more than anything. This was not a significant issue. I was able to do one open water ocean swim of just over a mile. The water was an eye opening 63 degrees. Yet, once I was past the initial shock it was very pleasant. I had to learn to time the waves to my breaths and keep thoughts of Jaws from invading. My wife did pace me down the beach and got the up close on the looks and points from the sunbathers at that "crazy" guy. My runs were also a mix of short and long and were of great pleasantry. The heat was not too crazy this year so my acclimation was not too bad. The area was loaded with runners so it was fun to be amongst them. Again, this area is great for running as most all areas had running paths near or around. My only real fault was that on my 12 mile I was in a bit of rush to start and I forgot to take or stash some water. My pace was slow at the end but I got through it.
So I returned to the great white north on Sunday and to our amazement the warm weather accompanied. It has been extremely pleasant of late with temps in the 70's but a constant wind. On Monday I decided to hit the Monon trail for a run on my way home from work. Something I have mentioned and done often. My only change was I chose a bit of different starting spot than normal to change up the scenery some and to match my workout better. I changed at work stowed my work stuffs, clothes and such in my car. Parked near the trail and headed out for my hour run. It was a decent run and with the warm weather of late I was far from alone. Then, upon return to my car, a crisis had occurred. A fine individual had decided to bust out my passenger window and steal my work bag and my pants which still had my wallet. I was devastated. They had gotten not only my wallet but my laptop, IPAD, and my work bag which carried all my work essentials including my passport. The theft in materials and damage to my car was one thing but the sheer hassle of all the credit cards and such was just inconceivable. Therefore, since return from vacation I have done next to nothing but fret with this BS and try to maintain my workouts as a reprieve from my anger and disbelief. Fortunately, much has been resolved and replaced. I have come to try and put this bump behind me where I can and focus on Sunday as the dawn of the season. I feel prepared. I feel relieved to start the season. I feel a bit of fire in anger for the senseless action of a theft.
No comments:
Post a Comment