Angela's Blogs

IRONMAN TRIATHLON BUSSELTON WA 2011

2011-12-07T23:28:00.001+10:00

On 06/12/2011, at 8:42 PM, "Darren Robinson - body4u" <darren@body4u.com.au> wrote:

OK due to a few requests and whilst it's all fresh, I'll close this Ironman blog out with my account of the day.

I must do the sucky stuff first cos it comes from the heart - Huge congrats to Ang who got through this ironman only 12 weeks after surgery was an inspirational effort and testimony to her will to compete.

That said - No mercy on the day - you take the field you're fit to play!

My mission as Ang almost got right was;
Priority 1- Beat Ang
Priority 2 - Make sure I crossed the finish line in under 17hrs
Priority 3 - Do the best time I could.

(OK truthfully I'm not sure which order they were in)

Swim:
The siren goes for race start and Yes, a Happy Birthday kiss to Ang on the beach at sunrise, then into the ocean as quickly as possible before I got any feeling of guilts about maybe swimming with Ang to look after her in the water.
Conscience clear, I was away. Swim felt really good for me as I can almost call myself a swimmer once I put a wetsuit on and my legs stop dragging the bottom like anchors. Anal as I am, I counted my swim strokes for the 3.8km as I wanted to know where I was at throughout the swim. 3900 strokes in total (counted one by one Ha Ha) The first km was very disrupted with people swimming across me and me giving more than my fair share back to anyone in my way. The 2nd km out to the end of the jetty was very rough with rolling swell made it very difficult to keep a good line as you couldn't see over the swell most of the time. At 2000 strokes I rounded the jetty, had a quick think about how far back Ang might be, and headed for home. Last km I was feeling good so swum a bit harder and rounded up a few places before the swim exit. I was very happy with my 1hr 11mins when I got out onto the beach cheered on by mum, Bai and Hayes - I walked to theT1 bike transition as I didnt want to ping my dodgy right calf early in the race.

Bike:
A very leisurely 9.24 transition to regroup (the swim must have taken a bit out of me cos I didn't want to get going any sooner) while the fantastic volunteers un-dressed, re-dressed, sunscreened and re packed my gear bag for me. A quick gel and a leak, (didn't like the idea of pissing in my knicks on the bike as I had my electrolyte drinks in my back bottle cages and the road out was into a stiff headwind).
Grabbed my bike and on my way to Cheers of 'go Darren' from mum (Bai and Hayes were waiting for Ang at the swim exit - I was hoping they'd be there for a while Ha).
The ride was tough, it was very hot and the wind hurt the legs. I did the 1st 60km loop at roughly my target race heart rate of 165 (set by our awesome bike coach Pete - Tecotraining). Onto my gotta beat the wife side of the brain (thats the left and right side) each time I hit a bike turnaround I would note the km on my garmin and count them till we met with Ang still heading towards the turnaround I'd just come from. 1st sighting, I was honestly very happy to see her on the bike because it meant she'd survived the swim and was in the race and still on track to be an ironman. Anyway, i was 4km heading back when we crossed - I was flying downwind at about 42km/h and she was fighting into the head wind - beauty! (meant I was 8km in front - approx 16min so OK but I needed a much bigger lead before the run)

The 1st 60km I had averaged 32.9km/hr but the 2nd 60km loop got harder as the wind and temp picked up and a bit of fatigue and discomfort started to creep in. I couldn't keep the HR as I felt the legs would get too tired with a long day still ahead (Mental note - have to train harder for next Melbourne IM in March). Rounded the turnaround with the 'Go Dad' from the kids and mum and I high fived them as I rode past. Ang and I crossed again, this time I was 6km in (12km lead = 24min - still not enough) I was actually a bit suprised Ang was going so well. (bloody bike coach's fault). We did another crossover during the 2nd loop and I was about 8km (32 min). The 105km mark notched up and a bit of relief from the wind heading back the 15km back into town.

Rounded the turnaround in town for the last time ' Hayes yelled how many left - and I got out 'last one' as I got a bit of adrenaline rush so pushed hard up to speed in front of the crowds (as you do). Slowed down pretty quickly once I got out of town and the wind bit again. This time it was 9.5km till I saw Ang heading back into town. She looked to be spinning really well and moving quickly and I thought 'shit!" so I knuckled down a bit to get a good rhythm happening and pushed a bit harder into the wind. I turned into one of the stretches that was 5km in and 5km out and my mission was to get back out of there before Ang turned in. Mission accomplished - I knew I was more than 20km in front = +40mins, I was on track to hold her off on the run. The last 60km was hard (the most Ang and I have ever ridden was 150km so the last 30km was breaking new ground for us.) My right quad cramped a bit so I had another salt tablet and my arse was sore as hell (Ive got rippled bruises all the way up the right cheek now - no chance of getting a wife massage - unreasonable I reckon). I finished the bike at 5.45 (ave 31.3km/hr) so was pretty happy with where I was at until I dismounted and tried to jog to the T2 change tent. I looked and felt like a spastic (no offence at all) as each step my legs buckled and I had to fight to stay up let alone jog to the tent. I grabbed my run bag and collapsed into a chair like I was sunbaking on a banana lounge. I couldn't move or talk and the two volunteers again saved the day. They emptied my bag got all sweaty changing my clothes, sunscreened me again and then I had to think about the dreaded nemesis of mine (and the bit where I am normally passed by my lovely wife with a bum tap and a kiss and a see you at the finish honey) - THE RUN

Run:
By the time I had my fuel belt on and about 11 gels in my back pocket (one for every 30mins), 10 salt tablets (min. one each hr), a few voltarin (as needed) , some anti chafing cream, my sleeves(in case I was still out there at night) I'm sure I was carrying about 5 extras kilos but it had to be done. I found my legs and jogged slowly out onto the 42.2km course. I had to keep running for the 1st couple of k's as the start of the run loop took you through town, past the finish line and in front of all the crowds of spectators cheering you on. (can't walk in front of crowds). I got through the 1st loop 10.5km in 1hr 20 and felt Ok and fairly confident of maintaining the rate.
Back into my left and right brain - I did a bit of math and was OK with the thought of 5hr 20min. I had thought Ang would be about 50min to 1hr behind me so she would have to run 4hr 20 to get me. (possible for her but would be very tough I thought). We crossed and I couldn't believe how much ground she'd made up - she was flying, I was walking. After a 'well done Angie!' I thought shit! again and started jogging straight away. I passed the kids and mum and heard 'has mum passed you yet' I said no but she will on the next lap. I stuck to my plan and got through the 2nd loop on my target 2hr 40min. Ang had been closing in fast so I had to dig deep and push on as much as I could. I was well into the 3rl loop and to my surprise Ang had not closed the gap as much as I had thought (poor thing with her legs and guts playing up - I thought Beauty, and jogged on. At this point I thought I was a big chance as I could see Ang was hurting and doing it tough. As I past the crowd after completing the 3rd loop I saw the finish line clock at 11hr 14min, my math told me I could get in under 13hrs so I was very determined to hold the rate to the finish if I could. I headed out again for the last 10.5km, there was a guy trying to run with two straight legs - very funny in a sick way - I gave him a couple of salt tablets, we wished each other good luck and on we went. By now I had some of my own issues as you do (bordering cramps in my both my quads and left hammie, right calf had pinged by now, something that felt like a stress fracture on the outside of my right foot, 3 black toenails as revealed later, an aching back, neck, and generally f%*#ked all over.) but hey this is an ironman and everyone would do it if it was easy. All things considered though, I was feeling good and starting to get pumped. As I headed towards the last turnaround 5km from home I took note of the landmarks so I could see how far behind me Ang was. I thought that if I could get back to at least 1km from the turnaround before Ang got there I had it in the bag. Well woohoo I saw her at just over 1km out, I was again wrapt that we were both going to finish, but I was also stoked that she couldn't get me from here. 2km infront with 4km to go, I could have walked it in! I think I could see it broke her at that point. I was OK cos it was no mercy - conscience clear (she'd done it to me many times). Anyway leaving nothing to chance I had to run the last 4km to the finish looking over my shoulder quite a few times just in case.

The finishing chute was a great sight and I high fived the crowd all the way to the line - Got the call - Darren Robinson - You are an IRONMAN crossed the finish line in 12hr 37 mins and squared the ledger (1 Ironman = 2 half Ironmans)

The sequel could be the decider? - Ironman Melbourne March 25th 2012!!!!!

Fantastic experience and worth every bit of the 12 months training to get here.

Cheers
Daz

IRONMAN TRIATHLON BUSSELTON WA 2011

2011-12-07T23:26:00.002+10:00

On 06/12/2011, at 4:16 PM, Angela Houseman - body4u wrote:

Hi everyone, this is Ang here to give you a post Ironman race report. It may be a bit long but I can't put 13 hours of horrendous torture into any less words.

Firstly I have to congratulate Darren on a great race and beating me across the line (on my birthday no less) in a magnificent time of 12hours and 37mins. A bloody top effort and I am very proud of him!

Darren had a great swim 3.8km and was feeling good as he exited in 1hour and 11mins. With great support on the sidelines from Bailey, Hayes and Darrens mum Marie (which means so much during the race) he headed for the transition area. After a cruisey transition, with 2 helpers getting him prepared, loaded up with a shit load of gels, powerbars, electolytes, power blasts etc. etc. Daz headed out onto the first 60km lap of 3 laps of the 180km bike course. I will have to let him fill you in on his thoughts and how he felt during his ride, but he did say that he thought the bike was the toughest leg of the race and the bike leg is his favourite so that may give you some idea of how tough it felt.

After 5 hours and 45 minutes Daz arrived back at transition and handing his bike off to the catcher he began to sort of jog/stumble on jelly legs towards the gear bags and change tents for T2 (transition 2). Another fairly long transition and saying to himself "how the f@#k am I going to get up and run a marathon, before heading out (once again loaded with fuel in his fuel belt) onto the first of 4 laps of the 42k marathon run leg. With his pacing plan in place he was on the final part of what was to be his first Ironman finish. His first objective on the run was to finish and the second was to make sure I didn't catch him (no pressure haha). Once again he will have to tell you how it all felt, but it must have been feeling pretty damn sweet when on the last lap we passed each other he knew he had a 2km lead on me with only 4km to go - he was taking this one!!!.

As Daz ran up the red carpeted finishers chute with the crowd roaring and hears those awesome words "Darren Robinson YOU ARE AN IRONMAN"

Well, enough of the well done Darren - whatever!!! Lets hear my version of the same race haha.

After about 3 hours sleep on Saturday night the morning had finally arrived. With our bike and run gear bags already in the transition area there really wasn't a lot to get ready. So force down a little bit of food, get the family up and organised and we are in the car by 3.30am and on our way to the transition area.

We get a great park right near the main transition and swim exit and make our way to check in. It is a really relaxed atmosphere and the sun hasn't come up yet. This is the scene we have witnessed on TV heaps of times, athletes pumping up tyres, checking their bikes and preparing themselves for the day ahead.

I am surprised that I am feeling pretty good and not overly nervous. We have ourselves set and its time to head over to the beach and toward the swim start.

The sun is coming up and it looks as though the day is going to be another warm one with not a cloud in the sky and a little bit of wind. Kisses all round to the kids and Marie and we make our way across the timing mat and onto the beach. Surrounded by 1400 other athletes all decked out in black wetsuits, white swim caps and goggles what an amazing and scary sight. Darren in his usual optimistic style is telling me how flat the water looks but to someone like me who has had a couple of near drowning episodes if there is a bloody ripple on the surface its rough!!!

The air horn blares and the race is on - a quick kiss and Daz is off, no mercy will be shown birthday or not, and I begin to make my way into the water. Staying wide on the right hand side I am hoping the currents of the previous days will help to drag me towards the end of the Jetty which is the longest bloody wooden jetty in the southern hemisphere. I am not an open water swimmer and I struggle to see where I am going and deal with my anxiety but I chant to myself "just keep swimming, just keep swimming" until a lifeguard on a board paddles next to me and says "honey you are miles from the jetty, you need to get yourself back over there" - well thank you very much, my panic sets in as I tread water and see how far I have drifted away from the jetty, the water is rough with swells that keep bobbing me up and down like a bottle floating in the sea. I begin to pull hard and turn towards the jetty getting smashed in the face and copping a number of mouthfuls of sea water. I begin to feel seasick and eventually have to throw up, lovely! I am seriously considering getting rescued at this point as I feel like i have been out there an eternity, but I remember chatting with a triathlete the day before and he said 'whatever you do when you feel like quitting think of how you will feel the next day' - its enough to make me keep thrashing my way around the top buoy and start to head back toward the beach, which is still 2 friggin kms away. The swim never gets better for me and I am so disoriented and dizzy that I am almost sure I am not going to make the cut off. This shows how my perception was so far off as I was actually doing an ok time for me. Anyway I finally get to place my feet down on the sand of the beach and I can't even woohoo as I am feeling so nauseous and Marie and the kids said I was very grey. I struggle up the sand and Hayes yells out Dad is 12 minutes in front - I am surprised but don't really give a toss at this stage.

Transition 1 is a long one with the help of volunteers to get me ready for the bike leg. I head out to my bike and am still not recovered from the sick feeling of the swim - I hope I don't crash mounting my bike - that would just be sooo embarrassing. All is good though and I am on my way. It takes ages for me to feel a bit better and I notice that it is quite windy and warm out here so I should start to hydrate and get a bit of food down. I hear "go Ang" and see Daz wizzing past and work out that he is going a few kms an hour quicker than me which is what I had estimated. This is a promising sign for me as I realise I am holding my own. At about 45kms into the ride my neck and traps start to get really sore and I am not quite ready to deal with this so early in the bike. I pop a voltaren and hope that will dull the pain- it doesn't! Through the roundabout at the first 60k lap turn around, smiles and cheers from our faithful family support group. Lap 2 is tough and I have to pop another voltaren to deal with my upper body issues. I see Daz again and he looks like he is out on a Sunday cruise, all he needed was a bread stick in a basket on the front of his bike the bastard! I complete my second lap and head out on the last - this is one of the hardest points for me heading out on the last lap (I thought it would feel great to know it was the last) but it didn't. The sky has darkened slightly and the wind has increased even more, there are a few spots of rain and it looks like this could change the day a bit. It doesn't last long and the sky brightens again and the temperature hits 35 degrees again with the wind still relentless. Chanting required again - this time "just keep pedalling. just keep pedalling". 2 more voltaren (not a good thing but who cares) and I finally approach the dismount line. The officials smile and say well done, my response, "does anyone want a bike". I pass the bike to a catcher and have a bit of a chat as I wander through to transition, then I hear "Dad is 54 minutes ahead mum, come on you can do it". 'Hayes'- you gotta love him!!! The surrounding crowd all start laughing and Bai and Marie give me a cheer of encouragement. I have to say right at this point I am so looking forward to going for a run believe it or not.

A very long T2 and I head out on the run. Yes yes yes I am on my way home, I am doing something I like and am good at and it feels great! I make my first run up the main street with the red carpet and finishing chute and hear people cheering for professional athlete Jason Shortis a triathlete legend. He is running beside me and we have a little chat, he is finishing (coming 3rd in the elites) and asks where I am at I say just starting my marathon what a birthday present, he leans over gives me a running hug and wishes me happy birthday and all the best just before heading left into the sacred finishing chute. At this point I realise I was keeping pace with Jason and my pace is on a 4.26k. Wow Ang you'd better pull it back a bit but shit it feels good. I do begin to pull back my pace a bit but am feeling great. I run past the kids and catch them by surprise so they run on the beach down from where I am screaming go mum! I see Darren and realise he has an 8km lead on me. Not impossible, but not going to be easy. Pick up my first black wrist band to indicate lap completed. 2nd lap its nice and hot out there and the supporters on the course are great fun and things are looking ok. Water, ice, oranges, watermelon is all I want at this stage, gels make me want to puke and electrolyte I am sick of even though I still do drink some. I see Daz again and I have made up 3km in the first lap which makes him 5km in front of me so still going good. Second black wrist band and into the 3rd lap. It is amazing how in an instant things can change, in about 200m my left achilles and the top of my right ankle seize up. Then in another 200m my guts decided to go into a knot and my race was taking another wonderful turn. Thank god this course goes along the beach front and there are lots of toilet blocks as well as the wonderful porta loos - oh my god let me tell you these are not pretty 11 hours into a hot day but desperate times take desperate measures, so don't look, don't smell and get out as quickly as you can. This process went on for about a 5km stretch until I had nothing left. I must admit the amount of people out on that run burping and farting (very gutsy I wouldn't have been game) was hilarious, but no one gives a toss. I finally got my third black wrist band and headed out onto the last lap about 3km behind Dazza, the kids and Marie gave me another cheer and informed me dad was about 20 minutes ahead of me. I give them all a final kiss and I'm off. Well Ang this is it my one last effort to try and catch him and I knew it was going to be within the last 5k if I could get him so we could finish together. I picked up my pace in pain and very depleted and began my chant "just keep running, just keep running". I was heading up the long straight toward the last turn around before heading back to the finish and I was doing everything to stop myself from walking when I thought I saw Darren, I kicked up my pace (and spiked my heart rate to 180bpm which my run garmin revealed later), I gained distance and then reality hit hard - it wasn't Darren, f@#k, f@#k, f@#k, about 3 minutes later I see Daz heading back about 4km from the finish and I'm at 6km it's just too much for me, so I yell out congratulations and he yells back "Ang we are going to make it". I get to the aid station I am broken and have nothing left and it dawns on me that I am actually going to get to the finish even if I walk the rest of the way, after my slowest split time it takes a big effort and some friendly encouragement from the supporters to get my legs turning over into a jog again and head for that last wrist band yeh an orange one - my favourite colour that day! As I run through the checkpoint where they hand out the wrist bands I yell "give me a bloody orange one!". The crowd on the sidelines know orange means you are heading up the finish chute this time round and they start to get behind you, I am starting to grin from ear to ear and when I veer left onto the red carpet and into the chute ironman logos on both sides of me, the crowd banging on the fencing, I am giving high fives all round, I am alone in the chute for my finest moment and I hear "Angela Houseman you are an Ironman" followed by the cries from Darren, Bailey, Hayes and Marie as I cross the line in 12 hours and 56 minutes with a little jump of joy. Darren comes over to give me a congratulatory birthday hug and kiss and thank god it is finally over!

Lots of Love Ironman Ang xxx

White water rafting, elephants and more.......

2009-08-12T13:58:00.002+10:00

Trust me you cannot get bored of waking to such spectacular views!

As we fuss around getting ready for our next day filled with fun and adventure it becomes apparent that Lou is definitely our resident forgetful head, what a laugh if something is missing it is Lous, probably buried in her magic camelback which holds so much stuff it is unbelievable, I truly think it is a black hole in there! We do make it to breakfast and have a guess as to what our smoothy contains today.

Fuelled up we head off in a minivan supplied by the adventure group, they pick you up and drive you everywhere you need to go, in your own private little group, no stress, no fuss. The driver is a bit more subdued than our own racing car driver Wayan so we all sit back and save on our adrenalin stores - for this journey anyway.

We arrive at the location where we will have a go at white water rafting. Funnily enough our guide is called Wayan so no probs there. We look so glam in our crash helmets and life jackets carrying our paddles - wheres Australias Next Top Model when you need em?

A short walk down to the boat/raft says Wayan who disappears into the bushes. So barefoot off we go and go and go and go, short walk my .....well you get the idea it is a fair hike down down down to the water. As we arrive at our raft Wayan is pumping it up - I'm thinking 'I hope this is normal practice' or this could be interesting,either that or he is worried we may sink it - only joking.

We climb in and take up our positions (Ali is sure she will be the one who falls out) a quick training session in the commands to follow, lean this way, boom boom means hang on and lean into the boat - hoping to get plenty of those! and of course FORWARD or BACK that means we have to work. Off we go and it is great fun, splashing of other people on the river is obviously a given (well by us anyway). We only got stuck up on a boulder once and as you can imagine 5 chicks in a boat and a guide yelling "BACK" as we are killing ourselves laughing must have been a sight, eventually Lous call breaks through the noise "PADDLE BACK" oh yeah okay, and digging in we drag ourselves off the boulder and continue our ride. The ride finishes with us being able to jump out of the raft and ride the current to the finish point on a river bank. Great fun, a bit of exercise which is good and beautiful scenery. I would have loved more hardcore rapids but thats just how I am.

Of course now we have to get back up from river level, yep you got it Climb, climb, climb only with an added challenge, trying to get by all the hawkers - "wanna buy a wooden elephant,or maybe a carved bike etc etc etc". No, but is anyone selling thongs? my bloody feet are not too good on these paths - no I don't want a sarong I want some thongs, head down ignore them - no thanks, no thanks, no thank you, hang on look back over the shoulder and NOOOOOOO Manda don'y do it. Yep she stops and starts to haggle for a sarong, gets a great bargain but now the others are like sea gulls after a hot chip, and Manda is the hot chip. We basically end up running up this pathway to the top and our fitness holds up for us as we leave the poor ladies chasing us gasping for precious oxygen. Don't get me wrong the sarongs are gorgeous but how many can you buy?

A shower and great feed, then it's off to the elephant park. What amazing creatures, they are huge and we feed them, pat them have photos with them and then go for a ride on them around the grounds. They are so quiet, for such a large animal they tread so softly and you rock and sway in your seat, very relaxing and although I am not a big fan of animals in captivity these elephants do appear to be really adored by their handlers. A couple of babies are around and another one is on its way later this year. We finish our visit with a coffee and then it is back into our bus to head home.

A full on day but so much fun and we are all sitting in the bus with smiles on our faces and I have never seen everyone so relaxed, but our day isn't over yet!

Better late than never Bali continued

2009-08-10T18:54:00.002+10:00

We awake to the most amazing view across mountains shrouded in mist. A very quick shower in our outside bathroom and off to brekkie.

Breakfast is served in a beautiful outside area in between rice paddy fields. A fresh fruit smoothie and banana pancakes yummy a nice cup of lemongrass tea and relaxed conversation - what a way to start the day.

A bit of exploring and then we all head off with our bamboo walking poles for a 2hour hike through the local hills and village. A bit challenging in some places but absolutely refreshing to see life in its most basic form.

Lunch is amazing and as we will experience every meal is made from local fresh produce with very little meat and almost no dairy. Fresh vegies abound and the colours and flavours are a wake up call for your taste buds - the food all has a little bit of bite to it but you get used to it very quickly and remember spicy foods speed up the metabolism heehee.

That afternoon is a cooking class to see how our delicious meals are prepared - it inspires us all to get into some fresh cooking when we get home.

A session of Yoga on the balcony with views to the mountains - it is a fantastic session and our teacher has us in some unbelievable positions and we have an awesome view of the sun beginning to set.

A relaxing dinner and early to bed because tomorrow is our big volcano climb.

3.30AM Wakey wakey rise and shine! Skins and camelbacks and off we go. A decent drive - with less on the roads at this time of the morning and we arrive at a friend of Wayans and Karens who has his own bed and breakfast and fish restaurant.
An introduction to Indonesian toilets with plenty of giggles from Amanda and myself. Our guides arrive and off we go. It is still pitch black and we are given torches a short walk through the town and then into the greenery we go. One of the guides is concerned we are going too fast and we will not make it to the top - haha he obviously hasn't meant the clients and trainers fron body4u. Half way up we take a moment to look out across the volcanic crater and lake below us it is breath taking. The morning mist is beginning to clear and it is just gorgeous.

Onward and upward until we finally reach the summit. In time for the sunrise. We buy a coke each (yeah a coke) and Lou a bali coffee which is in a bloody massive glass and as thick as mud. The local girls climb the volcano every day and set up stalls to sell you these drinks so it is the least we can do to buy one. We take our fresh eggs over the edge onto a ledge and place them into a little hole which is spewing out steam from the semi active volcano beneath our feet. Leave them there for a short while and we have nice freshly cooked eggs and bread for brekkie.

Time to leave and with thoughts of cliffhanger in my mind we walk along a very small ridge line to begin our descent. Where is the chopper to take some great pictures of us? Some singing and laughing and we reach the bottom - all of us taking a look back to actually see where we have been and where we have just come from. Great job guys!

We now head to a spa resort to swim, soak in the hot pools and eat. Followed by a fresh fish lunch at our friends place. The hospitality of the local people is lovely. With our tummies full and feeling very relaxed and invigorated at the same time we head back to our home for a few more days.

When we get back to Ayung Sari Indah we all sit on the balcony with wine and lemongrass tea and one by one have the most incredible thai massage with a local healer called Pak Gadang. Another experience that adds to the already wonderful time we are having.

Dinner and another great night of conversation, relaxation and wonderful food and off to bed.

Stay tuned more to come night night!

Sharing Bali Part 1

2009-06-03T19:42:00.002+10:00

Just returned after a fab few days in Bali at a wonderful place called Ayung Sari Indah.

If I wrote everything I would be here for a month so I will try to keep it to maybe a week, ok a bit less then.........A few installments I think.

It all started on Thursday last week with Brekkie at the Coffee Club, followed by a stretched limo ride to the airport with my intrepid travelling companions Amanda, Alison, Louise and Karen.

A flight to Darwin with a few hours to kill in their massive airport - not! So we end up in the little tavern having a wine. Already plenty of laughs. Onto our flight to Denpasar - none of us have experienced such a noisy flight and with plenty of alcohol already consumed by half the people onboard it was only going to get better the longer the flight went. Oh the joys of flying Jet Star!

We arrive at Denpasar airport go through customs and Lou gets taken into a little office becuase she has 3 bottles of wine instead of 2. We all wait, just a tad nervous and with fleeting thoughts of "you know who (Schapelle)". 200,000 rupiah later Lou emerges wine still in hand. We then get round the corner from customs to a row of about 30 money changers all calling out to us. Every window offers the same exchange rate so pick a window any window and come away with over 1 million rupiah which is only around $200 but we were still happy to millionaires in our own minds!

Out into the fresh air - only its not too fresh with smoking still allowed everywhere. The clouds have opened up and it is pouring, absolutely torrential. Karen W from Ayung Sari Indah (ASI I will use for short) spots us and eventually we traipse through ankle deep water to her partner and fellow host Wayan and climb into the car for our trip to ASI.

Holy moly this was the most intense 1+ hours in a vehicle any of us has experienced. They drive on the same side of the road as us - well they are supposed to but basically they drive wherever they like dodging bikes, dogs, people, signs, pilesof timber or rocks, you name it we swerved it. Lots of toot tooting on the horn. Eyes wide like scared rabbits in headlights is what we all looked like - this would have been a great you tube video! But guess what we made it totally unscathed and now with our jaws hanging open at the beautiful sight of ASI. Now midnight aussie time it was hard to fully appreciate our wonderful surroundings but that which we could see was lovely. We were led to our bungalows and although these bungalows would become really homely it was a little bit of a culture shock. Unable to really get settled it was time to go straight to bed. It was surprisingly cold and felt quite damp obviously due to the humidity during the day. I would liken the beds to futons a little higher, with mattresses quite hard it made for some funny bedtime joking. Outside bathrooms, so sitting on the toilet surrounded by jungle noises late at night can be a bit spooky first time around. Oh yeah and if someone looked over from the balcony they would see you - or you would see them first and yell out that you were on the toilet, well Amanda did a couple of times until we got into the habit of letting our roomies know we were "GOING TO THE TOILET". Have to say though by the end of the trip it all seemed quite normal. We did still have power and running water so it wasn't totally back to nature without any modern amenities.

So finally off to sleep and awaiting the days ahead.

I will be back with Day 1 soon - log back on it is worth the read I assure you

It's been a while!

2009-05-22T17:33:00.002+10:00

I am back.
Things have been moving along nicely at body4u since the New Year New You challenge and we are currently into our next 8 week challenge in the club. With around 30 entrants it is shaping up (pardon the pun) to be an interesting few weeks ahead.
Next week I will be flying off to Bali with a great group of ladies to experience Sharing Bali. A wonderful retreat just outside Ubud up in the hills. Apart from an amazing time anticipated by all we will actually be doing a recce to see about offering our clients bootcamp retreats, incorporating exercise, healthy living and relaxation all in one - interested? well keep checking my blogs for more info.
Also happening at the moment is the training for our Kokoda challenge race which is taking place down the coast in the Hinterlands. It is a fund raising event and takes us on a 96km journey with only 39 hours to complete it. Myself and the rest of my trusty team, Darren, Richard and Brooke are hoping to do it in 20 hours or less. Fingers crossed.
A few hours run/walk tonight followed by about 6 hours in the hills on Sunday - very wet hills I imagine is all part of the fun in store for us.
Gotta go for now be back soon with news of our adventures - take care and remember to make someone smile> :-)

I'd Like To Thank!

2009-03-29T16:25:00.002+10:00

I would like to thank everyone involved in this New Year New You Challenge but some special thank yous for Darren for his never ending support and for making all of this possbile, my kids for being so patient and making do without me so often. Richard and Amanda for all the hard work and effort they have put in. All the rest of the body4u team for their encouragement and support of the challenge. A big thank you to the partners and families of those involved for countless weekends away from them.
A special thank you needs to go to 2 of our wonderful clients Brett and Alison King for sponsoring the Bridge Climb today, thank you so much.
Last but not least thank you to Greg and Annette for being great sports and for putting in the effort required to achieve their goals, I will certainly miss our weekend adventures and I wish you both all the best in your future goals for a healthy and long life - keep up the good work.
Cheers Ang.x

"And now the end is here..........."

2009-03-29T13:49:00.002+10:00

The final week. 6 am at the gym running a few minutes late after printing off the details for the final adventure. Greg, Annette and Rich are waiting at the gym. Amanda pulls in and upstairs we go.
A couple of quick pickies and into the last training session. On the treadmills for a hill climb warm up and then into a boxing session. Both of them worked really hard and there wasn't much talk. Rich and myself with focus mitts up each end of the running track and jabs and uppercuts galore, throw in lots of burpees - Greg still needs a bit more practice on these heehee. Puffing panting, red faces and more sweat and it is finally over. Good work.
A quick change and we all load into Amandas car and stop to grab takeaway coffees for all and apple scrolls (just for the trainers of course). We start our drive heading towards the city and the destination is finally revealed "The Story Bridge Climb", I think Greg may be just a 'wittle bit scared of heights' even though he said he lied. Amanda is really nervous and her palms are sweating before we even start. The getting ready takes a while, breathalyzer test (we all passed phew) jump suits on (gorgeous), head sets, safety lanyards, sunnies and off we go.
Great views from the bridge, some interesting history and a few laughs watching the guys climbing and descending, photo ops at appropriate places. Couldn't say the climb itself is challenging, maybe if you are scared of heights! but the overall experience was great. Everyone enjoyed the day and then a yummy breakfast at Bulimba.
Back to the gym for weigh ins and we will all be meeting back at the gym later today for the final measurements and photos and a celebration drink - yep Foxy a drink an alcoholic drink woo hoo! Well done everyone and we will post the results later.
Cheers from Little Miss Scary.

How time flies!

2009-03-27T16:11:00.002+10:00

Nearing the end - sad in a way I have enjoyed seeing the effort of all involved and also some great achievements from Greg and Annette. I am sure there are a few things they didn't think they would have done at the beginning of their journey - walk run to Manly for example, climbing Pollies hill (twice) and Sundays surprise (hey Greg was it heights you were scared of?) just asking would I do something like that?
The big thing will be to see if they can keep it up - I truly hope so. They have inspired many people and the enquiries for our next 8 week body4u challenge has been great already, so you two have shown quite a few people what is possible. Back again on Sunday.

The last week!

2009-03-25T16:18:00.002+10:00

Just wanted to thank everyone who has followed the blogs - body4u clients, friends and family (of our lucky two), trainers and non-clients too. I have had many people stop me to talk about the progress of Annette and Greg and I appreciate your positive comments and support.
I am looking forward to the last Sunday adventure and I am hoping it will be something different for A & G. (It will be for us trainers too!)
The results of their weigh ins and measurements will be posted as soon as we have them.
Stay tuned!
Little Miss Scary.

A leisurely Sunday stroll

2009-03-22T17:43:00.002+10:00

A shaky start with the roller door breaking at home, so a quick swap to Darrens car and off I go. "BEEP BEEP" goes my phone and a nice welcoming text from Greg - smart arse! "BEEP BEEP" gee he's quick with those texting fingers hopefully his legs will be just a quick heehee.
I arrive at body4u to find Annette, Greg and Amanda waiting for me.
Annette is still wondering where on earth we are going and soon realises its the hill over off Sleath Street, I know she has not wanted to miss out on this since we started the challenge! A couple of sprints up the hill and we continue on, finally revealing our destination of Manly. The joy on the faces of G and A was priceless. The smiles on mine and Amandas faces was just as good.
Into the sequence of BEEP on the watch and we walk for 2 minutes and BEEP BEEP and we run for 1 minute. Greg takes a little while to get the pace up during our little jogs (even though he reckons he was sprinting). We keep in touch with Annette and Amanda via phone and with a bit of diverting courses we meet up at Railway Parade, a quick hello then BEEP BEEP and we have to jog again. We're now a good couple of hours into our leisurely sunday stroll, Gregs calf is playing up a bit so a little stretch and a voltarin (I am such a thoughtful trainer) and we hardly miss a beat (or should I say BEEP) ha.
Greg must be getting a bit delirious because I get a BEEP BEEP on my mobile phone and Greg starts running, its ok mate its not the watch it's a message you can still walk, for another 30 seconds anyway.
Manly is in sight, suns getting a bit of bite to it and on we run. Finally we get to the park area, a toilet break is in order and I have a bit of a giggle as Greg has some trouble with a little wall we have to climb over, his legs are not co-operating! We keep going just a little bit more until I give him the ok to turn around and head back to meet the 2 A's on their way into Manly, some sideline cheering from Jeff, Bree and Georgia (Amandas hubbie, daughter and friend) and we finally meet the girls. Greg and Amanda decide to have a little race up the road - no competition there - and Annette and I finish it off. Annette is a bit emotional as she asks if I am really going to make them walk back to body4u. I wish I could have said yes but the look of desperation on poor exhausted Annettes face was too much. Relief washes over her as she realises its over. A quick photo and off to the coffee shop to eat and drink. Darren and the kids arrive to join us and between him and Jeff get us all back. Thanks guys! Thanks Amanda! Well done Annette and Greg!

Keep posted for the final weekend adventure next week, should be fun and a little bit different, a bit more mentally challenging possibly for a few people.

P.S. Ssshhh don't tell anyone it's just between you and me, but "oh my gosh the old Greggie boy looked by far the most shattered I have ever seen him!" Hope you have recovered mate and the legs, knees, calf etc are not too sore. Oh yeah and one more thing .............

Suck it up princess!!!

HI HO YEP ITS THE HILL AGAIN !

2009-03-15T18:27:00.002+10:00

Camelbacks on, walking sticks in hand and Rich and I are ready to get Greg and Annette up the hill faster than before with the added bonus of a longer walk this time. Don't you just love it?!
Ready, set, go! Stopwatch ticking and a 30 minute target for Greg (took 40 last time) I quietly thought he would make it in less but didn't say anything (I found out later Greg was thinking the same thing). Well mate first 5 minutes, heart rates spike pretty bloody quickly and I am thinking Greg is gonna try and break me - bring it on! Not much chatter from either of us. There's a nice little bit of flat stuff roughly half way up the climb and Greg is motivating himself by thinking at least there he can get his breath back he never said this out loud until we got there and I say "ok Greg time to jog" - PRICELESS!!!
Once again Greg goes for it and even keeps going up the start of the next rise until it just gets too tough and its back to walking. If I ever let Greg get in front for any reason he was gonna try and make it hard for me to get back in front - nice try mate, a bit of competition never hurt anyone and in this instance Greg makes it to the top in 27 minutes and 30 seconds - fantastic work Greg.
A quick breather on the favourite log and a few choice words to some fellow walkers and off we go again, at a more pleasurable pace. Across a little creek and at roughly 1 1/2 hours it's time to turn around and head back for brekkie and a well earned coffee. We catch up with Rich and Annette congratulations all round and down we go.
It was really great to see Greg and Annette giving encouragement to other walkers heading up, comments like "a long way to go yet", "it gets worse" etc etc. and some sucky ones "you're doing well", "good work" you know just the sort of stuff they get from their wonderful trainers all the time!
Thanks once again both of you for a top effort, thanks Foxy for your insight it was nice chatting with you and thank you Richard for your support. Oh and thanks for brekkie Greg.

A day at the beach.......

2009-03-08T13:54:00.002+10:00

That time of the week again, 7am we all meet and start walking up Masthead Drive. Annette has a sore throat and is not feeling the best and I wasn't too sure if Greg was too keen today either, ah well too bad!

We arrive at the Raby Bay beaches where Darren and Richard have been setting up our little obstacle course for the guys. It's a shame that the tide is in and we don't have a lot of beach space to spread out on, so its up in the sand and lots of dead vegetation, all adds to it I guess.

First part of the circuit is the filling of a wheelie bin (we were nice it was a small one) with sea water using 2 buckets we give them, oh no Gregs bucket is all smashed at the bottom so the water is going to pour out as he runs up the beach to the wheelie bin, how did that happen bloody crazy clarks heehee! Once filled to our specified height its over to a 4 meter plank with 2 ropes attached so G & A can drag it down the sand and back, then run along the beach over some obstacle ropes and down to 2 tractor tyres (in other words big mothers) flipping these over end to end, no rolling to the awaiting sand bags, fill sand bags to a specified level, which originally was half full but after a quick check were too heavy, so being nice again we allow some leeway, with their trusty bags off they go over and under the obstacle ropes, they would both make good marines, out of the ropes still with bags and down to the tug-o-war with Darren and Rich on the other end, when the boys are dragged over the mark (just a little bit of help from myself for our lucky winners) and finally a run back up the beach to the waiting tyres once again which need to be flipped back to their original start position and a run back to the start line. Phew I'm tired just typing this. Well done guys 12min 27sec. Sweating, wet and sandy a quick drink break and we start again this time they must beat the previous time. Not much banter going on today!

Great stuff 11min 38sec. Daz pipes up that they still looked like they were going a tad too easy Rich and I agree so now the challenge is to finish it under 10minutes or keep going until they do.

With some great team work and Greg offering some assistance to Annette - what a gentleman - they cross the line in 9min 51sec. Close but we stick to our word and call it a day.

A stroll back to body4u for a well earned coffee - no fat of course.

Weigh ins were terrific today Annette had an excellent loss of 2.2kg and Greg had a surprising 1.5kg he wasn't expecting.

With only 3 weeks remaining the guys are both still giving us their best efforts and commitment just as we asked and they deserve all the accolades that they are receiving - top stuff both of you THANK YOU!

What's in store for this weekend?

2009-03-06T21:20:00.002+10:00

Greg and Annette, see you both at 7am on Sunday morning. Be prepared to wear togs under your gym gear (no we are not going swimming but you will get wet). Be prepared to get sandy (no we are not going sun bathing at the gold coast, but you will get sand in your hair and maybe even your bum crack!!!)
You will need to work as a team and help each other out. I will be bringing a bucket (expecially for you Greg - you know what I mean!) and a few other items of torture.
So fun, fun, fun is in store for all, especially for me, Darren, Richard and maybe a few of our other lovely trainers who may come for a lau.......oops I meant who have come to support you guys.
Bye bye for now and remember "winners are grinners"
Little Miss Scary

Just a WALK in the park!

2009-03-01T12:43:00.002+10:00

4 weeks down and time to step it up just a little bit. 6 am meet at the gym, camelbacks on and off we go. The guys thought I was going to head to Sleath St for some hill work (as if I would be so cruel) but no we head towards the point. Darrens watch is set on 1min and 3 min intervals so as the first beep sounds I break the news to them that we are jogging for a minute. Annette once again slays me with her look and says that running is not her thing (well sorry Annette but it is today :-).
We reach Santagiulina Way and a little pit stop to pop a couple of weight bags into Gregs backpack (sorry Foxy it was only 2.2kg not 7kg - maybe next time).
From here we continue our pattern of 1 min jog but the jog is now followed by the addition of 1min of selected exercises eg: lunges, squats, push ups, v-holds, hill runs etc etc. followed by 2 min walk and repeat and repeat and repeat and repeat for 2 and a half hours, got pretty warm by the finish but once again both of our "lucky winners" battled on and showed their fine spirit and determination to make it back to the gym hot and sweaty.
I so enjoy those couple of hours of insults and look forward to each week to come. Gregs nice comments and sucking up paid off hey Greg no wonder Annette has told him to keep his mouth shut in future - I doubt it, he can't help himself so get ready for next week Nettie.
Darren helped out by completing the exercises too and as usual had his camera handy (some pictures have been posted on facebook - the link is at the bottom of body4u blog page). I'd watch out Daz we may have to get that camera surgically removed from a not too pleasant orifice if Annette gets hold of it and you at the same time!!
Weigh ins were conducted again this morning and both guys had another loss, just shy of a kilo for each of them so slowly but surely it continues.
I must sign off now to go and work out the next 4 weekend adventures to come - hahahahahahah.
LOL Little Miss Scary

I WANT TO RIDE MY BICYCLE!!!

2009-02-22T15:58:00.004+10:00

5am alarm wakes me up - shit I wish it was raining! Oh dear did I just think that, see trainers have bad thoughts too!

Anyway suck it up princess, out of bed and get into my biking gear which has not seen the light of day for quite some time.

Bikes in the back of the truck and off to the gym. Rich arrives just as we do looking like he needed to stay in bed too haha.

Annette and Greg arrive and after letting them in on the fact we are riding to Manly and back (Annette never stops killing me with her looks!) Greg mentions its been a couple of years since his bike has been allowed out too. This should be good.

Beautiful morning for a ride, couple of ups and downs and a cheery hello to Brett and Alison some fellow body4u members/friends as we pass them on Chelsea Rd heading into Lota, its definitely been a while for Greg he hasn't been on a lot of the new bike pathway, I am sure he will be looking forward to travelling this path lots more in the future - hey Greg :-)

We make it to Manly and Annette is stoked as she should be - top effort Net. A very very short stop (thanks for sharing your banana Rich) and we head back to Cleveland.

Daz meets us on the way back just in time to grab a few pictures of us climbing towards Wello Point, his timing is impeccable! Greg appreciates Daz's sense of humour, he always catches us looking our best - not!

We make it back - 3 hours of being on our bikes, numb bums, legs can feel it but that little bit fitter than when we left.

Weigh ins and another week of great results, Annette 5kg in 3 weeks and Greg 7kg, well done to you both and keep up the good work. Looking forward to next Sunday when another surprise training session awaits, oh the fun of it all - it is fun isn't it guys, come on admit it I know you love it (and sweet little me) really.

Cheers from Ang aka Little Miss Scary

HI HO HI HO ITS UP THE HILL WE GO!

2009-02-14T17:27:00.000+10:00

Rain what rain?!
Have to admit in the middle of last night as I awoke to the sound of what could have been a hurricane and rain smashing down I thought (even if only for a very little moment) am I asking too much of Greg and Annette to head down to Springbrook and climb a bloody long and steep hill. Well the moment past and the answer was a definite NO.
So 5am out of bed still fairly dark and pissing down with rain into our walking gear, first aid kit, backpacks and walking poles (thanks Suzanne and Richard)and Darren and I head off to meet the guys at the gym. Annette was already waiting in her car and Greg arrived shortly after, I must admit I was wondering if he was going to need a wake up call, but no there he was still eating a bowl of oats.
Weigh ins were a little more subdued this week with Greg pretty much the same keep watching there will be more and Annette losing 1.2kg great work. A little reminder that this challenge is not a weight loss challenge it is a lifestyle challenge and weight loss is one part of the whole process. The effort these guys have put in again is fantastic, Greg is feeling a bit tired and hungry at times so a bit of adjusting his food intake after looking at his diary and hopefully we should be able to overcome those problems. Annette is feeling strong and full of energy and so her plan stays as is.
A quick stop at Banjos for a coffee and apple scroll (for Daz and me that is - sorry guys) and off we go. As we drive down the coast the rain appears to be getting worse and a few jokes are made about just going for a nice drive - not!
We arrive at Pollys country kitchen a lovely little spot and don our gear and we're off.
Darren and Greg head up in front and Annette and I follow behind. With motivation, willpower and determination we arrive at the top. A quick photo and then the process starts again going down, using muscles differently and slipping and sliding, Greg and Darren out in front again, Annette decides to liven things up with a few tumbles, so with a little more mud over her than before we laugh our way down. 2 hours in total great work.
The guys didn't seem too keen on going up again - maybe next time what do you think guys.....guys.......guys hello!!!
A well earned coffee and muesli brekkie and its time to drive home.
I am not sure but I think a great time was had by all as well as doing something a little bit different.
Once again good work G & A and thanks to Darren for his support.
Oh and by the way Happy Valentines Day. :-)

First weekly weigh in!

2009-02-09T21:03:00.000+10:00

Well done to both our guys. Annette lost 2.1kg and Greg lost 4.7kg. Top stuff and what a great start. The effort both these guys have put in this week has been tremendous and the results speak for themselves.
Sundays session had a few comments I am unable to print hurled in my general direction. The hillclimb on the treadmill was for starters with a nice rise to a 15% elevation and back down but never to below 2.5% and just as they thought they could relax up we went again, a few swear words from Annette with Greg saying he was thinking the exact same thing - well suck it up princesses because next week is going to be so much more challenging and of course naturally that means so much more fun! Off the treadmills and after looks that could kill some serious interval training on the rowers, followed by the bikes and finally the cross trainers. I am already getting Gregs number - start slow and build up slowly - not anymore Greggie boy. No, seriously they both worked really well and it can only get better. Once again congratulations and see you in the gym tomorrow.

1 week down 7 to go!

2009-02-07T13:20:00.000+10:00

The first weekend is upon us and what can I say apart from the fact that Greg and Annette have started off with such dedication and enthusiasm that I am looking forward to the results they will definitely achieve if they continue like this.
Well done to both of you.
Diary check tomorrow, weigh in and first weekend session with ME!!!!!
Hope the guys get some well needed rest they are going to need all their energy and determination tomorrow.
Bye for now hahahahaha from the Dragon Lady ;-)

2009-02-04T16:51:00.000+10:00

Great to see the blogs written by Annette and Greg. So much fun to come! My head is sooooo busy thinking of what adventures I have in store for these two. hahahahah!
I am using this time to support these guys and am staying off alcohol too for the 8 weeks, but bloody hell I never expected to be at the counter of my local coffee shop at Gordon Street looking at those beautiful chocolate brownies and the like and thinking should I or shouldn't I when these guys are trying so hard, bugger no chockie brownie for me ohh the sacrifice!!!!!!!!! All for the greater good.
If you are reading this blog get behing Greg and Annette and post some comments on their blogs to keep them going.
Cheers for now Ang

New Year, New You - Initial Weigh In day!

2009-01-31T20:49:00.000+10:00

Phew what a day!
After arriving at the gym, our lucky (well maybe not so lucky hee hee) winners of the body4u New Year New You promotion Greg (who was giving up his birthday)and Annette were suddenly thrown into life as super models. Cameras clicked, flashes flashed and smiles shone. With our 'before' photos completed it was into the consult room for weigh ins and measurements. A video diary interview with our lovely Bonnie Somers at her journalistic best and the morning activities were completed.
We all then met at the IGA in Cleveland where the grocery shopping fun was to begin. Trolleys at the ready and into the fruit and veggie area we ventured, nice and safe here with colours galore and no restrictions on what Greg and Annette could put into their trollies. Fresh lean meats next and then the tricky part as we venture deeper into the supermarket jungle. What nasty little surprises awaited - Oh no mint slice biscuits (better grab 3 packets they are on special!), "no Greg don't do it" his hand edges nearer but his will power kicks in and the danger passes. I force Annette to bring me the bag of chippies she would normally buy for herself (she didn't want to do it - good girl but she had to) and proceed to dissect the nutritional panel, (talk about make something that tastes so yummy sound really bad I am soooooo good at that) of course the bag went back onto its nesting place snuggly settled amongst all the other fat and salt disguised as sliced potatoes in tempting flavours. We examine nutrition panels, compare products and at the end of our adventure have the best looking trollies in the shop. Through the checkout where the IGA team looked after us and back out into the world again.
Training Plan, eating and exercise diaries in hand, healthy groceries in the boot and we are set to begin the 8 weeks ahead. Good luck guys and we will see you in the gym on Monday.