FIRM man - 1/2 Ironman

(1.2 mile ocean swim, 56 mile bike, 13.1 mile run)
The Results:
9th woman overall
3rd in 40-44 age group
641 competitors
118 overall
5 hours, 9 min and 51 seconds
35:31 - swim - 2:49:30 bike (20 mph avg), 1:41:10 run
The Place: Narragansett Bay, Rhode Island
The Plan:
An amazing back drop and setting for this great race, we arrived on Saturday for the number pick up and race meeting. Fred the humorous race coordinator was just getting into his last talk of the day going over the course and things to watch out for - like 2-3 foot waves and 15 mile head wind on the bike. He warned of swimming off to Block Island and sunken barges, and encouraged looking for those big orange buoys and head for the sea wall. The rest of the talk was noting where to watch out in order to keep things safe. I noted where the biggest hills would be coming in the course on the bike (33 miles) and the run (11 miles), but my main focus was to survive the water, tuck in my aero bars in the bike and hammer, and kick it in on the run if I have enough left to rally to the finish. Then really, the plan is always JUST to finish isn't it? I haven't done this distance since 1993 - so I will be happy with whatever this body decides it can muster..
The Start:
The day started in darkness as I prepared my gear for the transition area while letting Schuyler sleep in as much as possible.... The people on my transition rack were all very friendly, reminded me of when I competed 10 years ago and how great this group of dedicated athletes are in supporting eachother, a social network, a culture of its own.... My new full long sleeve Xterra wetsuit fit me like a glove and after applying my Bodyglide on my body to ensure it goes on with out much work... I walked the 3/4 mi down to the start with others and chatted with a few newbies to the 1/2 distance, encouraging and smiling faces, looking at the water with the sunrise promising some incredible weather. I tested the water (about 67 degrees) to be crashed on by some waves as I dove into the ocean for a little warm up before the start... Bagpipes played the national anthem barely audible over the crashing waves, and last minute instructions were given to all the racers. I was in the 3rd wave - Dick and Ricky Hoyt were the first wave - this father who has been featured on TV - doing the Hawaii Ironman and many other high profile races - swimming his son in a raft, pedaling the course with a custom made bike to carry Ricky and then running with the jogger - this is an amazing duo!
The swim:
The swim was made a challenge with the waves and the currents - taking me in and out - once I was really close to the buoy and the next moment I was very far away from the next.... I think I swam an "S" for Schuyler! Maybe 2 miles by the time I was done, I made the turn at the double buoys and kept thinking, when is this going to be done! The waves made the last section pretty tough and I stood up as soon as I could see the sandy floor! Off peels the wetsuit - which rubbed my neck (missed that area with glide) and created this nasty rash that stung when later I poured water over my head to cool down...
The bike:
In transition and off on the bike - looking at my times, I can probably cut at least 30 seconds here, but I thought I was pretty fast. The bike was a rolling course out on this highway with 15 mph headwinds. Racers I met were very encouraging and sometimes quite chatty. This girl "Jess" I met kept me motivated throughout the course, I thought I lost her at the end and she then passed me with 2 miles to go (said she had to make a pit stop!). : ) I passed her on the early sections of the run and she was planning on a DNF because of injury. Near the end of the bike, I was definitely tight in the back and hoping for some fuel to get me through the run, the winds were crazy hard as I stuck into the aero bars as much as my back would allow.... (note: Need to train in aero bars more...). My stomach was killing in me - I had to go the
The run:
I got to T2 (transition to run) and quickly changed to running shoes and shorts. Also a place I could cut time.... but I grabbed some GU and headed to the port a pottie, which I had to run through the thorn bushes and jump the fence to get to it... (whew!). My stomach felt much better as I tried to run off and get my legs back from that bike ride. I love the run - my sport of emphasis this summer, so I had high expectations, but not knowing how much I had left in me, nutrition was small for the day - - so I headed out, my feet blistering from the bike and now pavement pain... I passed probably about 6 women - some maybe on teams, but knowing my swim is so weak in the scheme of things, I needed to push it here. I ran with this one guy for about 5 miles (in the military) - pushing for a 5:09 - I set my goal for 5;15 and kept the pace with him until the hill where he fell behind. There was a turn around section at mile 9.5 and I was able to count the women finishing and knew I was top 12 by the time I made it to mile 10 (but not clear who was on a team and who was individual). The last section of the run after the 11 mile hill was all downhill and I felt like I was truly cruising to the finish. I reached the pavillion area to find that they put the finish on 1/2 mile of beach sand. It was really tough to run on the sand with blistered feet after running 13 miles.... so focus on the ground - look to the finish and a slight uphill around the corner and it was over! Yippee! Proud of my results as you see above, better than I had hoped, with that 5;15 goal - I hit that 5:09 and was a happy camper!
One side note: My age group is always very competitive, but in this race, the first and second place females were both in my age group (Donna Kaye and Amy Rice) - 2 amazing female athletes that have raced pro. Great feeling to be at the top of my game and to be in the ranks competing with these elite women!
The diet:
Breakfast - Cold pizza Pria bar & Shaklee Performance (10oz) & Water
Bike: Performance - 32 oz & 16 oz water & 2 GU & one Hammergel
Run - 1 GU - 32 oz water - 2 Hammergel
Post: Starbucks - Latte - McD's fries, and at home - Peju cabernet, steak and veggies for dinner. : )
"Pure Madness".

Swanzey Covered Bridge 1/2 Marathon - PR!

Swanzey NH
4th woman
1rst in my age group
21st overall - out of 311 finishers
1:31:01 total time, 6:57 min/mile - Personal Record!

The Swanzey Covered Bridges Half Marathon has a course that is a showpiece for rural, historic New England. The course was rolling with 2 larger hills, it didn't let up even with 2 miles to go... The rain was persistent, but was clear at the beginning and the end. There was a beautiful vibrant rainbow at the start when I was warming up - just amazing! Good luck for me, although I don't always like running in the rain - thought about turning around and going back home when it was pelting down on my windshield at 6:30 AM.
I ran 6:15's (not so smart to go out that fast but....) for the first 3 miles and then let up in the middle, my stomach was a bit queazy (could be the pace, or nutrition) - hard to tell.... It was lonely on the road with only 320 runners the packs spread out and I ran with Andreus from Spain (winchester resident) for a little while, but mostly on my own. This sweet little HS sophmore girl passed me with 1 mile to go - - flew right on by! They gave cash prizes for the first 3 - no other awards given, but the pride of being fourth and winning my age group was pretty amazing - - looking forward to the 1/2 ironman this weekend! Wish me luck and think of me early on Sunday with the 1.2 mile swim in the ocean!
Individual posted results below:
21 1/22 F4044 1:31:01 6:57 Nancy Peck 42 F 348 Sunapee NH

Journey for Sight Triathlon

Chicopee, MA
Start time 8 AM
Place - 35 out of 185 finishers, 3rd overall woman - 1st in age group
- ONLY 3 1/2 min behind first woman finisher!
Distances: 1/2 mi swim, 17 mi bike, 3.5 mile run
11:55 min swim (3rd in age/ 60 overall), 52 min bike (1st in age / 46 overall), 25 min run (2nd in age/36 overall) = 1:31:09 total time

Reflections:
It was a great morning - cloudy skies and pending rain, but it held off the whole morning while I was in the triathlon. After about a 2 hour drive, the swim was in this reservoir. I felt smooth and strong in the swim and then ran the hill up to the bike transition. Made a wrong exit on the bike (only me!) turned around at a dead end and got back on the course, not sure why those cones messed me up - I just get too focused and really have learned that I need to ride the course to be sure I don't mess up! : )
The bike was a 13 mi loop with a little 4 mi loop. Safe and not a lot of traffic, I pushed the hills and with the waves set up, women were last so there were a lot of people that I passed in the 52 min that I was on the ride. The run was back into the park and again another 2 loop course. The massive down hill was tough to take, especially when I could hear this "slap, slap" of a runner behind me, who eventually passed me like I was standing still. Same girl that I caught and lost in the Six in the Stix race earlier - Maura - she place 2nd.
The women ahead of me were both in their 20's - so being the veteran of the crowd felt good to me, but being so close to the number one girl really gives me some competitive sense that I really could be in that number one spot some day! This race was also a national qualifier, so things look good for that ranking for the year.
It was a well run race - great competitors. I made friends with this one guy who panicked in the swim and still finished because he had "paid" for it. The Holyoke/Chicopee police department was out in full swing helping on the bike course and in the transition - some really great people and great support!
Next weekend: 1/2 marathon in Swanzey, NH

Wal-Mart World - features Nancy Peck Photography

Nancy Peck Photography photos on the cover of Wal-Mart world. Credit inside cover and 4 of the 5 photos (all but the picture of the girls in blue arms raised) are my photos.

Photos were taken at the Keene, NH and Newton, MA Relay For Life events June 2006.

Sea to Summit NH - New Castle Island to Mt. Washington

New Castle Island to Mt. Washington Summit
110 plus miles * 6288 feet

Nancy’s Results
The Stats:
2nd woman out of 6 (only 5 finished)
22 out of 33 finishers
47 signed up (by application only), 36 showed up, 33 finished despite the odds
Kayak – 12 miles – 2 hours – 8th out of the water
Bike – 97.7 miles (I got lost, the course was 90–more later) – 18.1 mph, 5 hrs, 35 min, 41.5 max speed – approximate time loss was 45 min.
Run – 3 hours (I was delirious at the finish and somehow my watch got knocked on the rocks and stopped keeping time)
Final time was 10:36–It took me a little while to find the summit having never been there before, and between the wind gusts, rain and being the closest I had been to hypothermia in my lifetime, I am pretty lucky I found the timer guy!

Official times below:
F -Nancy
Peck
Kayak- 2:00:02 - 2/6
Bike - 5:35:40 - 5/6 (wish I didn't get lost!)
Run - 3:00:42 - 2/6
10:36:24 - 2/6 = total time

The Weather:
New Castle Island - 79 degrees – foggy – low visibility (lighthouse fog horn))
Route 16 – slight head wind – cloudy – but dry
Dana Place Inn to Pinkham Notch – 68 degrees and dry
Mt. Washington - 57 degrees – 60 mph wind gusts (30 degrees with the wind chill factor) – rain (and I swear there was hail). The rain began just before I reached the shelter and the wind picked up on the steep section of the rocks.

The Players:
Ellen – 1st overall woman – we met in the parking lot when she pulled into park beside us - After we brought out boats to the beach she returned at one point and said “you owe me already – your boat was floating away…..” We chatted on the kayak for the first 20 min, along with some of the other “chatty” others (although there weren’t very many).
Elizabeth – (3rd) A veteran to this race and a strong mom supported by her very proud family. She must have finished the bike when I was lost and I passed her on the beginning of the rocky section headed up to Tuckerman’s Ravine.
Jacqui – SUPER support crew – I got to know them all on the bike….. she had signs everywhere! She finished 4th overall woman.
Lisa – 5th woman – lots of piercing in her ears – from Goffstown, I passed her on the run at the bottom, very nice lady – gave me a big hug at the race party and was so proud that WE finished!

The People:
MY support team - Mario & Jessica – you can’t do this race without the right support - (and of course Schuyler – who would rather have spent the day at Storytown, than in the back seat of a Subaru…)
Jessica was with me to start the kayak – she is an incredible support, always with kind words and observing all those around. She joined me in the beginning of the hike.
Mario was a great support for the whole race, doing the research ahead of time, packing and organizing everything in its special bags and on the bike course listening to my needs of water, performance and bars. Checking in with me to be sure I was ok and encouraging me along the way. Most of all I was so glad he picked up the phone to listen to my desperation and need for directions to get to the finish.
The Canadian (French speaking) motor cycle riders parked on the side of the road that loaned me their cell phone to call Mario when I got lost on the bike.
All the hikers cheering me on up the mountain trail – when they see you with a number they just know and move out of the way – it was pretty cool…..
The older woman who called me her hero – (I responded – “sometimes I am my own hero” – I think I was at that point for the first time in my life) still having the competitiveness of mind thinking I would break that 10 hour mark.
All the people who assured me I was on my way to the summit – if anyone can get lost, I CAN. I have a tendency to veer left and got stuck in the rocks a couple times, as well as the tree brush above timberline….
The guys at the shelter pointing the way to the Summit – searching through his stuff to find me a bag to protect me from the elements at the top.
The older man who asked me all about me – what and why (which I was happy to chat for a little while because he was obviously impressed), walked me to the side of the shelter where the smiling guy with a huge head of dreadlocks gave me a garbage bag. “I owe you – I don’t know when I will see you again, but I owe you!” I called back as I headed up to the summit.
The couple climbing the rocks with me (the man was one of the racers) who gave me a bottle of their water (saved me getting to the top!)
Again – more hikers assuring me the summit was anywhere from 20 min to 45 min away…. : ) Follow the carons – big rock piles that replaced the washed away hash marks sending you to the top. Again – if anyone can get lost – I CAN. I slipped slippery and got lodged into the rocks at one point because of the pelting rain making the rocks , and my Asics just didn’t cut trying to be “spider man” at that point in time. : )
People at the top – answering my desperation to find the summit (note to self: best to climb this mountain before racing it…)
The timer guy with his BRIGHT orange jacket blowing in the wind at the top of Mt. Washington Summit. A sight for VERY sore eyes!
Ellen’s Friends – (aka: Molly) – Kayak friend Heather, that shared her wool hat and fleece coat when I couldn’t find Mario at the top and also found Mario to tell him I was there (he was in the car with Schuyler who refused to come out in the cold). Hiker friend who bought me the hot chocolate. Friendly happy encouraging people I will never forget.

The Fuel:
Breakfast- ½ cup of coffee black – and the old standby – “PB & J”
Water – the colder the better – in the camelback on the kayak and the bike – nothing tastes better than COLD water
Performance – “my liquid power” – 5 quarts on the bike and 1 quart on the run. Because this is a 10 plus hour race and how little you are able to eat, the liquid you chose is so incredibly important. I rely on this stuff!
Cliff Luna bars – Toasted nuts and cranberries – (4 on the bike)
HOT CHOCOLATE
Post race Race dinner – salad, chicken and ½ choc chip cookie
Pizza with Schuyler at the hotel
Justin Isosoles – (YUM)


Lessons Learned:
Know the course – OK we rode the course the weekend before…. But there is so much more you can do to know the course, like…. Maybe hike Mt. Washington or kayak the channel or maybe even ride the bike course with your bike. I didn’t feel like I had time for that, but I paid for it by missing the turn because of the markings that confused me and took me to the finish of another race (that “other race” did a great job of marking there course with the same exact markings S2S did).
Have a plan and stick to it. Planned to have cell phone (didn’t have it when I needed it), planned to have map (didn’t have it when I needed it), planned to have clothes at the top (didn’t have them when I needed them)
Have a communication plan –know where all you key people are and what to do if something happens and we separate.

Reflections:
The kayak start was a mass of faces getting into these skinny kayaks. I had the shortest fattest kayak there (hybrid recommended to be tested for my rep friends from Perception). Obviously my fat kayak held its own (note my finish in the pack). The current was mild in my estimation, but the fog was heavy and the lighthouse fog horn could be heard the entire 12 miles. My hands and back hurt slightly from cranking on that paddle, keeping pace with the others - but it was a great ride and warm up for the bike to come. I finished and as they helped me out of the water I sunk in the mud and fell into the river…. Oh well. : )

The transition was smooth and Mario helped me with my equipment and clothes to head out on the 90 mile bike. I push myself pretty hard throughout – checking the timing and the average speed as I pedal through the roads… my biggest fear being that I would get lost. So, when the markings on the road began to get confusing I worried – turned right and realized I was off course, saw a support vehicle and got back on…. Deep in concentration with less than 20 miles to go there were so many markers (with the same design as the S2S race) turning you to the left I took the turn and ended up at Attitash – thinking I was wrong and then they had a big X in them. I KNEW I was wrong – so upset – I “mentalled” out – frustration set in and I kept looking at the cars yelling “help? I am lost” – finally seeing this motorcyclist couple on the side of the road I pulled across the street and in desperation asked them to use their cell phone. They were speaking French, but understood me and let me use there phone. After 3 attempts Mario answered and I told him I was lost, where I was and he was able to give me direction back. Still bummed and in disarray I pedaled hoping that I would get to the finish, definitely dazed and very frustrated…. After about another 20 min Mario had come back to get me and assured me the finish was up the road. It seemed to take forever but finally I made it to the transition area. Here I swiftly changed into my sneakers and got my fuel belt and singlet.

Whew! Up the road – all uphill in the open on pavement the run began. My belt was too tight and was driving me crazy – I handed it to Mario as he went up to meet Jessica and Schuyler. I kept on running – every step up that hill – this support guy from another group was very encouraging…. “You’re reeling ‘em in! – Keep up the good work”. Bikers and others were also very beneficial to my psyche and I passed about 4 people in the first 4 miles, including 2 of the women that must have passed me on my detour of the bike course (I figure at this time I must have lost about 40-50 min from my “detour”). After meeting up with Jessica at the trailhead I hit the bathroom and then with more energy started to run up the trail. My competitive brain took over and I pushed …. Jess had given me some more performance, but I left my coat and additional water behind. I passed Elizabeth on the rocky section and made it to the shelter. The guys were great and thank god for that garbage bag. I continued to climb the rocks looking up to where the summit I hoped would be… no slash marks could be seen because of the rain, but I caught up to another male racer with his female support who shared some water. My garbage bag kept blowing in the wind and pelting rain so I put my belt around the outside to keep it from blowing over my head. I saw a couple hikers higher that assured me I was almost there (what ever that means….), and then I could see cars parked above the rocks. The visibility was so poor I could barely see it – but the peak had snow and the fog was dense! I asked everyone I could see where to go to the summit and turned around again to climb up some final rocks. The wind was blowing so bad the 2 guys could barely see me and I pulled out my number to show them I was finished! They said my time and I turned to go see if I could find someone and someplace warm…. I was pretty dizzy and disoriented at this point in time, entering the lodge and looking around not knowing anyone – until Ellen’s friend Heather came over to help me and get me warm. My body was bone cold and I was shivering…. She shared her jacket and advised me to get out of my cold wet clothes, but as soon as I sat and they offered / bought me some hot cocoa, I couldn’t get up. I used the towel as a blanket and Heather went to tell Mario that I was finished and in the lodge. Schuyler didn’t want to go out in the cold so they stayed in the car and waited. He tried to call Jess once I told him she wasn’t with me and we waited for a while before leaving hoping she was at the bottom.

We went to the blue Subaru – getting a call from Jess saying she made it to the top and had a ride to the bottom (thank god!). She was an incredible support to me and it was brutal out there!

My finish results I am proud of – to survive the conditions and adversity of this race I am also very proud of – 50% mental – 25 % fuel and 25 % training / strength. You need it all, but if your head isn’t in it – you won’t finish. I finished - it was a truly amazing experience.

FAQ
Why?
I love to be challenged in every way possible in setting goals and going for the “glory” so to speak”. The thrill of the finish, the thrill of competing, of knowing that I can do better and go faster and show my strength as a woman and as an athlete shines brightly in these events. It is a very small percentage of people who ever start an Ironman or endurance / adventure race like this one. I am proud to be one of the “crazies” competing at this level.

What is your training like to get ready for these events?
I am of the “less is more” mindset. There is something to be said for being well rested, not burning out, and listening to your body. My training is sporadic, looking to get in 2 long distance disciplines (run or bike) meaning at least ¾ the distance of the upcoming goaled race. My most faithful training partner - Labrador retriever Oakley wakes me up promptly at 5:15 AM every morning, we stop by my new friend and running buddy, Tina with her dog and do a loop in the neighborhood, which is extremely hilly (even for NH). My cycling is on the weekend or following my run, if I don’t get in the kayak. I take one day off a week and do my long runs / cycles / kayak / swims on the weekend – whatever I can fit in and trying not take away time from the family.

Is that enough training?
In my racing these days (after many years of “base”) 50% is mental, 25% is fuel and 25% is sport specific training. This only works if you have the experience and know your body and KNOW you can do it. I have entered something I didn’t know I could finish and have never quit – I like to push and power myself with the right diet and exercise routine to prove some great results.

What’s next?
I love to race (it’s my speed work, and a great outlet for my energy) – so I am sure there will be something in the weekends in August, including being a part of the New London Hospital team at the CIGNA 5K. My next big goal is to qualify for the national triathlon championships in the ½ Ironman distance – I am signed up for the FIRM-man in Barrington, RI September. Then on October 21 I am running the Chicago marathon with my ACS Relay marathon team, and have a goal of 3:30 (which will be a qualifying time for the Boston marathon).

Wish me luck.

Lady bug

Oh little ladybug
Where did you get your spots
do you have the measels?
Or the chicken pox?

N.Peck - age 8
I used to write poetry as a kid and that was one of my published poems! Post your favorite poem here!

NETS - "The Great Fairlee Triathlon"

Fairlee, VT, July 9, 2006
3/4 mi swim, 24 mi bike, 5 mile run
Another great weekend of race results- I am happy with my times (except in the swim, but can't seem to get in the training for that discipline right now).It was a beautiful day, the water was warm, I wore my wetsuit, (maybe that's what slowed me down...), my buddy Kim beat my time in the swim by 3 minutes! The only bonus to being slow in the water is the thrill of passing so many people on the bike and the run. : ) I was flying!
The bike course was an out and back, not the old loop up Thetford hill that I remember, and the turnaround point was very tricky.... the run was the same loop around Lake Morey, but I sinched my shoes up so tight that my toes got numb.... I loosened them at mile 2. Ugh. My transitions were fast, but I really need some new sneakers (blisters again!). Looking forward to this weekend off to do some long bike rides and some more distance on the kayak to prepare for the Sea to Summit which is 7/22. See below my time / splits - very excited to see if I may have qualified for Nationals, which is one of my goals for the summer!


Overall place 117/467 finishers Age place 4/27 F4044
369 NANCY PECK
42 F SUNAPEE NH
Swim 205 23:44
Bike 108 49:27
Run 86 34:00
Total Time: 1:47:12

Woodstock July 4th Road Race - Vermont

Race results update (my weekly speedwork)
Woodstock July 4th - John Langhans 30th annual 7.2 mile - crazy hill run - 50% dirt road, but some major hills - glad the start was at 8:30 before the heat set in. I was 2nd woman and running 6:45 until the 4th mile, where I lost it on the downhill (that darn knee is slowing me down) and fatigue set in climbing the last hill - I finished with at 7 min/mile pace 50:24 and 3rd over all, first in my age. Happy with my time and my result, but napped most of the rest of the day - - guess my body is telling me to rest now!
Looking forward to this weekend's USAT sanctioned triathlon in Fairlee, VT - hoping to place well and work on qualifying for US Nationals Triathlon - needing 3 top placements, if I do well and am on track - I am following this up with a 1/2 ironman the end of August which is also USAT sanctioned, and then my last tri of the year on Labor Day - Boston Premier Tri offered by Time Out productions. Wish me luck and send me whatever summer energy you have to spare! Swim take off is 8 AM this Saturday - following my return from Arkansas visiting the "mothership" Wal-Mart HQ for their Relay For Life!
Fairlee is an old favorite - a crash site of mine from the early 90's where this guy hit my front wheel passing me on a downhill - I slid under a guard rail, hit the sign post with my head - - woke up with a concussion in the hospital... I have competed in it since and passed that spot many times since and love the course - it plays to my hill strength on the bike - - and short enough calm lake swim to survive my lack of water training.
Cheers and best wishes to all of you racing this weekend -
More next week!
Nancy

Six in the Stix

Ran a 6 mile trail race on Saturday - placed 3rd woman - one minute behind number 2 girl (they were both in their 20's - I felt pretty good about my reults, just knowing that...). The uphills were long, the downhills were wild and the stairs up to the ski jump were not a lot of fun for the last mile. Twisted my ankle (which today is still stiff) and have a nice blister on my right foot. Fun times in the woods of New Hampshire!
Schuyler ran his first trail race - 3/4 mi - he needed to be coaxed, and wanted to quit a few times, so a lesson from mommy in competing and never quitting was in store. They encouraged the parents to run with the children and he kept asking me for a piggy back ride, which was of course not possible (he is now 43 lbs!). We chased down the little girl and she passed him on the track - which again made him want to quit - so funny how it is out loud just the way I feel in races, except with a little more exaggeration..... He crossed the line, instead of breaking through the tape he ducked underneath and got his ribbon for finishing. Very nice.
Best part was when they called my name as first in my age group - - Schuyler shouts "HEY that's you mommy!" and I won a quart of maple syrup. : )

http://www.team-pinnacle.org/2006_six_in_the_stix_results.htm

1
39
Nancy Peck
50:24

Splash, Mash and Dash

1/3 mi swim, 13 mi bike, 3.1 mi run
Grantham (Eastman), NH, June 24, 2006
3rd woman, 2nd in age group, 25 overall, (12th in swim, 2nd in bike, 2nd in run)
OK - I all know you think I am nuts, but this is my speedwork for the week!
Interesting to see the finish times below.... - less than 2 min between 1st and 3rd. It rained all through the bike and cleared out for the trail run.... finish was on the beach! Great to see some old friends and be back on the triathlon circuit - planning on doing 5 triathlons total this summer - could be a good season for racing! One note to self - "need to swim more" !
3rd woman
2nd in age

2/25
128 - Nancy Peck, Sunapee, NH
09:58.6 - 40
0:40:50.6 - 26
23:08.2 - 25
1:13:57.3 -

Covered Bridges Half Marathon - VT

Happy Monday!
I did it! I set my new personal record (PR) at the Covered Bridges half marathon (Woodstock to Quechee, VT) yesterday. It was a drizzly day, but mostly clear and cool. The course was fast up and downhills - with some great music and spectators all along the course. My PR before was set on this course (1:36:02) in 1994 and after a 1:39:14 in Alton, NH 2 weeks ago - I set my goal and made it! Sub 7 min/miles until the end and I dogged the last 2, but still hit the mark.
My official results below -
117 4/138 F4044 1:33:22 7:08 1:33:37 Nancy Peck-Capozzoli 41 F 1822 Sunapee NH
15th woman
1621 finishers
4th in age
10th master (over 40 - we don't get older, just FASTER)!


I walked the course back to cheer and run in my buddy Judy from Atlanta - so I got to see many familiar faces - it was good to go back to my old stomping grounds - especially being faster than ever!
I couldn't be happier - looking forward to the next race.
Monday last week I ran a 5K and was 4th woman - with a 20:04 - this could be my summer for racing once again!
Feels good!
Have a great day!

Big Lake Half Marathon - NH - a new PR!

Happy Rainy Monday from New Hampshire!
Sharing my results from this weekend half marathon on the Big Lake that I am very proud of, running in the winter is really paying off for me! My diet was toast and butter with one GU to boost me the last 4 miles, good choice for food. I had a great pace in the beginning and ran with a new friend (for an hour anyway... those of you who know me know how I talk incessantly when running) Jessica - we had a 7/min mile pace for 2 miles... her husband is in Iraq.... showed many others my wounds from Moab (they were all impressed) and wore my Boston Marathon 2002 jacket (proud of that one, because I ran it 6 months post partum).... Anyway - I am pretty psyched with the results - see below...

19 overall woman, 6th of 96 in age group, 9th woman master and 141 out of 1350 runners that finished the race.

141 overall
6/96 in age group

9 6 F4044 1:39:00 7:35 Nancy Peck 41 F 666 Sunapee NH

The Epic Adventure - for girlfriends only!

A story from my girl trip out west to see Sue Logan-Nadeau in Moab. It is mostly in note form, but definitely a fun read. For girlfriends only!

Moab, Utah
Day One:
Flying into Salt Lake City on a Tuesday night – arriving late – finding my way to the Hertz counter (that is another story in and of it self– meeting strangers at the bar in the Atlanta airport – offering me coupons to save me about $50)
So I get my Mercury Capris Sedan – please note for a future reference in this story – head down the road to drive 4 ½ hours to Sue and Roger’s home in Moab. Dark, only 18 wheelers on the road – riding about 75-85 , most of the way there. Driving through Helper – just 30 min outside of Moab was amazing even though it was dark out – you could tell you were in red rock canyon. One point I was so tired I had to pull off I-70 to sleep in the car. I arrived about 4 AM (6 AM – EST) and Sue greeted me at the door and showed me the house briefly and I found my room to be quite inviting and then off to dreamland.

In the morning I see Roger, say hello and we get to chat about his work drilling for natural gas. He is beginning a round of shifts where he is on nights for 7 12 hour days. This new job he is fortunate to be able to come home and sleep rather than be away from home the entire time. They show me their new toys – 2 Yamaha WR250 motocross bikes, and share stories of their rides on all the trails right here in town. A new toy for Sue!
Slick Rock Practice Loop
Sue brings me to her buddies at Rim Cyclery – one block below Main Street. Justin and the boys gear me up with a Specialized Epic – recommended by my bike shop owner friend Fred. The bike has a rear suspension system that only engages when you need it - sweet ride – more to come. Love the green color too! : )
We take the ride up past Lion’s Back and Hell’s Revenge where the Jeeps and other 4 wheel vehicles and motor bikes start their tours. It was amazing to see the vehicles riding up this rock where you could see one wrong move and they were off the ledge.
This is a 2 hour ride to practice riding on Slick Rock. It is a playland out here – roller coaster – so hard to explain – sand and rock, in the dessert – truly amazing scenery of the LaSalle mountains and Arches National Park…. 4000 feet in elevation – very dry and VERY HOT.
We started out – up – new bike, new pedals, new shoes for me – just a little breaking in is needed - - a couple times crashing in the rock, but on the uphills – I was trying to be real careful on the descents, not wanting to see yourself going off into the canyons…. I loosen the pedals using Sue’s tools, seems to be a little better. Today was photo shoot day – we brought my D50 and got some great shots! Mountain shots, rock shots, action shots – and model shots too! We had so much fun climbing and riding. I liken it to a roller coaster ride – absorbing the downhill (trying not to grip for dear life) and then up up up – if you don’t make it you have to push it the rest of the way. Some of the steeps were so steep – hiking it was a test of balance and strength alone.
We went out to the Desert Bistro - - a wonderful dinner overlooking the canyon where the Colorado River flows - - the warm nights of the desert – but nothing compared to the heat of the day…..
Go to bed early thinking about the big ride in the morning.
Day 2 – The BIG ride
Waking up - my body still on Eastern time – head out for my morning run – 500 West up to Kane Creek boulevard – a run that goes by the park where they have set up a course where the "kids" can practice trial skills with their mountain bikes. I pass the farm where the flower pot sculpture wildlife preserve and heads down this canyon and follows the Colorado River. The views are amazing! The red rock cliffs along Moab Rim Trail, Sue says is a one hour power hike to the top. This is a popular spot for jeeps and 4wheelers and motor bikes too. Soggy Bottom campground straight ahead. I turn and go back to McGill getting in my hour of exercise for the morning…
Sue is up – moving a little slow – but ready for our ride on Slick Rock. Roger’s famous words once I expressed an interest to do the ride …. "Be prepared to get your ASS kicked!". Always loving a challenge and although knowing it has been more than 4 years on a serious mountain bike ride – I was truly looking forward to the day! We load up the DaKine water bladders for the backpacks – knowing we will need plenty of water. Food, bananas, and energy bars packed along with my famous pumpkin bread too. Off to the playland! Sue and I were laughing the whole 6 hours – constantly pushing each othe.r
Acquired nicknames: Fancy Nance & Slick Rock Sue

Random Quotes from the day –
- "YOU are my hero"- Me to Sue & Sue to me
" Look at her – she rocks! – she’s my hero" – same as above
"Fancy SUV ladies" – Random MTN bike shop dude riding around in Slick Rock parking lot
" Got Slick Rock" – Rog
"Be prepared to get your ass kicked!" - Rog
"It kicked us and we kick it – TWICE" = the Slick Rock Chicks
"Friggin’ Shrimp Rock!" – Sue
"That’s no shrimp – that’s a short fat ____" = chicks
Shrimp Rock salute - -
"--- rock" – So incredibly steep you have to sit so far back on the seat that you squeeze the seat post.
"Blood ROCK" – Got me! - Nance
"Damn Sand!" – Pedal, pedal, pedal!- chicks
"Always remember to pee downhill on Slick Rock!"- Slick Sue
Porn Stars – pink taco (what?) – video and camera talk
"We’re ----- good – we rock"- chicks on second loop because we needed it…
"I’m going to ride this last hill if it ------ KILLS me!" – Nance
"Old, fat & out of shape? I don’t think so…" – chicks
"We kick ass – 41 and getting stronger- chicks
5 hours 20 minutes - 20 miles total – not including the parking lot victory lap.
Random Notes –
"Nancy you missed the view" –I was ½ way down the hill, just to turn around and climb back up!
Look – Negro Bill Canyon – Nancy looks and crashes!
Doesn’t this look familiar – ya sure it does ! We rode this 2 hours ago!

When we finally realize we are not on the way back to the trailhead we inquire from a lone (obviously confused) rider as to the quickest way to the parking lot… he tells us we are half way through the loop – so we head toward other cyclists that may have more of a clue. Once confirmed we are lost and only halfway we realize we are on our second lap. Our language is completely in the gutter – Sue is definitely pissed, but we are smiling and laughing as delirium settles in. Headed up one more steep and looking at "friggin shrimp rock" which at this point we don’t enjoy the scenery anymore… this guy on a dirt bike starts to chat with us – shaking his head, but also very impressed. We know we rock, but are completely frustrated with our situation, so much so that all we can do is swear and laugh. : ) they let us borrow their map and helped us realize where we were. Line of the day: "Beer, Men & Band-aids at Finn’s N Things" They went off trail to check on us later that we indeed had followed the right route and we stopped to get their picture before we head down the hill to return the bike before 5!
A group of 5 random "paraphernalia" mountain bikers (including one very large woman) – stand in the intersection that we were dumbfounded that we missed! They were all smiles and obviously were clued in from the cyclists before us that we were on our second loop by mistake. I ask "did you paint that just now?" In big white writing it shows the way to the trailhead. "It still looks wet to me!".
My hands were so sore from gripping the handlebars from fear on the downhill sections that I had to hold the sides at the end. Quite the EPIC adventure! Photos tell the story – we were truly on a high and ready to celebrate! Time to drink! Ride hard – play hard - -
Laughing hysterically – headed down the street to return the bike.
Smiling the WHOLE way – attitude is everything
OW! OW! OW! – Arms rash, left lower leg rash, chain ring tattoo –
The famous Slick Rock Rash:
Showing off the rash at the restaurant to the foreign visitors – I’d show you the rash ------ but that would probably not be right. Bit b the sand, the rock and the tree – not to mention a little sunburn too! OW!
Loving the warm air, the tough ride and knowing the day that we had – I haven’t lost it!

Cheers to us!
"Slick Rock Sue" & me – "Fancy Nance"

New Hampshire Bride - Nancy Peck Photography

My friend Suzanne on her wedding day in Springfield, NH - - my photos are also posted on the website of the venu (Fox Stand) --> http://www.foxstand.com/wedding_second.html

How many church members does it take to change a light bulb?

Charismatic:
Only one.
Hands already in the air.

Pentecostal:
Ten.
One to change the bulb, and nine to pray against the spirit of darkness.

Presbyterians:
None.
Lights will go on and off at predestined times.

Roman Catholic:
None.
Candles only.

Baptists:
At least fifteen.
One to change the light bulb, and three committees to approve the change and decide who brings the potato salad and fried chicken.

Episcopalians:
Three.
One to call the electrician, one to mix the drinks and one to talk about how much better the old one was.

Mormons:
Five.
One man to change the bulb, and four wives to tell him how to do it.

Unitarians:
We choose not to make a statement either in favor of or against the need for a light bulb.
However, if in your own journey you have found that light bulbs work for you, that is fine.
You are invited to write a poem or compose a modern dance about your light bulb for the next Sunday service in which we will explore a number of light bulb traditions, including candescent, fluorescent, three- way, long-life and tinted, all of which are equally valid paths to luminescence.

Methodists:
Undetermined.
Whether your light is bright, dull, or completely out, you are loved.
You can be a light bulb, turnip bulb, or tulip bulb.
Church wide lighting service is planned for Sunday.
Bring bulb of your choice and a covered dish.

Lutherans:
None.
Lutherans don't believe in change.

Amish:
What's a light bulb?

me again

Dogs & Cats - Diary

EXCERPTS FROM A DOG'S DAILY DIARY:

8:00 a.m. Oh, boy! Dog food! My favorite!
9:30 a.m. Oh, boy! A car ride! My favorite!
9:40 a.m. Oh, boy! A walk! My favorite!
10:30 a.m. Oh, boy! Getting rubbed and petted! My favorite!
11:30 a.m. Oh, boy! Dog food! My favorite!
Noon- Oh, boy! The kids! My favorite!
1:00 p.m. Oh, boy! The yard! My favorite!
4:00 p.m. Oh, boy! To the park! My favorite!
5:00 p.m. Oh, boy! Dog food! My favorite!
5:30 p.m. Oh, boy! Pretty Mums! My favorite
6:00 p.m. Oh, boy! Playing ball! My favorite!
6:30 a.m. Oh, boy! Watching TV with my master! My favorite!
8:30 p.m. Oh, boy! Sleeping in master's bed! My favorite!


EXCERPTS FROM A CAT'S DAILY DIARY:

Day 183 of My Captivity: My captors continue to taunt me with bizarre little
dangling objects. They dine lavishly on fresh meat, while I am forced to eat
dry cereal. The only thing that keeps me going is the hope of escape, and
the mild satisfaction I get from ruining the occasional piece of furniture.

Tomorrow I may eat another house plant. Today my attempt to kill my captors
by weaving around their feet while they were walking almost succeeded; must
try this at the top of the stairs. In an attempt to disgust and repulse
these vile oppressors, I once again induced myself to vomit on their
favorite chair, must try this on their bed. Decapitated a mouse and brought
them the headless body, in an attempt to make them aware of what I am
capable of, and to try to strike fear into their hearts. They only cooed and
condescended about what a good little cat I was. Hmmm, not working according
to plan.

There was some sort of gathering of their accomplices. I was placed in
solitary confinement throughout the event. However, I could hear the noise
and smell the food. More importantly, I overheard that my confinement was
due to my power of "allergies." Must learn what this is and how to use it to
my advantage.

I am convinced the other captives are flunkies and maybe snitches. The dog
is routinely released and seems more than happy to return. He is obviously a
half-wit. The bird, on the other hand, has got to be an informant, he speaks
with them regularly. I am certain he reports my every move. Due to his
current placement in the high metal room, his safety is assured. But I can
wait, it is only a matter of time ....

me

5 Important Corporate Lessons

Corporate Lesson 1 -
A man is getting into the shower just as his wife is finishing up her shower when the doorbell rings. The wife quickly wraps herself in a towel and runs downstairs. When she opens the door, there stands Bob, the next door neighbor. Before she says a word, Bob says,"I'll give you $800 to drop that towel." After thinking for a moment, the woman drops her towel and stands naked in front of Bob. After a few seconds, Bob hands her $800 dollars and leaves. The woman wraps back upin the towel and goes back upstairs. When she gets to the bathroom, her husband asks, "Who was that?" It was Bob, the next door neighbor," she replies. "Great!" the husband says, "Did he say anything about the $800 he owes me?"

Moral of the story: If you share critical information pertaining to credit and risk with your shareholders in time, you may be in a position to prevent avoidable exposure.


Corporate Lesson 2 -
A priest offered a lift to a Nun. She got in andcrossed her legs, forcing her gown to reveal a leg. The priest nearly had an accident. After controlling the car, he stealthily slid his hand up her leg. The nun said, "Father, remember psalm 129?" The priest removed his hand. But, changing gears,he let his hand slide up her leg again. The nun once again said, "Father, remember Psalm 129?" The priest apologized "Sorry, Sister, but the flesh is weak." Arriving at the convent, the nun went on her way. On his arrival at the church, the priest rushed to look up Psalm 129. It said, "Go forth and seek, further up, you will find glory."

Moral of the story: If you are not well informed in your job, you might miss a great opportunity.

Corporate Lesson 3 -

A sales rep, an administration clerk, and the manager are walking to lunch when they find an antique oil lamp. They rub it and a Genie comes out. The Genie says, "I'll give each of you just one wish." "Me first! Me first!" says the admin. clerk. "I want to be in the Bahamas, driving a speedboat, without a care in the world." Poof! She's gone. "Me next! Me next!" says the sales rep. "I want to be in Hawaii, relaxing on the beach with my personal masseuse, an endless supply of Pina Coladas and the love of my life." Poof! He's gone. OK, you're up," the Genie says to the manager. The manager says, "I want those two back in the office after lunch."

Moral of the story: Always let your boss speak first.


Corporate Lesson 4 -

A crow was sitting on a tree, doing nothing allday. A Rabbit asked him, "Can I also sit like you and do nothing all day long?" The crow answered: "Sure, why not." So, the rabbits at on the ground below the crow, and rested. A fox jumped on the rabbit and ate it.

Moral of the story: To be sitting and doing nothing, you must be sitting very high up.

New Englanders - Jeff Foxworthy

Here's what Jeff Foxworthy has to say on New Englanders:
If you consider it a sport to gather your food by drilling through 36 inches of ice and sitting there all day hoping it will swim by you might live in New England.

If you're proud that your region makes the national news 96 nights each year because Mt. Washington is the coldest spot in the nation, and Boston gets more snow than any other majority in the US, you live in New England.

If your local Dairy Queen is closed from September through May, you live in New England.

If someone in a Home Depot store offers you assistance, and they don't work there, you live in New England.

If you've worn shorts and a parka at the same time, you live in New England.

If you've had a lengthy telephone conversation with someone who dialed a wrong number, you live in New England.
YOU KNOW YOU ARE A NEW ENGLANDER WHEN:
Vacation means going anywhere south of New York City for the weekend.

You measure distance in hours.

You know several people who have hit a deer more than once.

You have switched from heat&A/C in the same day, and back again.

You can drive 65 mph through 2 feet of snow during a raging blizzard without flinching.

You install security lights on your house and garage, but leave both unlocked.

You carry jumper cables in your car and your girlfriend/wife knows how to use them.

You design your kid's Halloween costume to fit over a snowsuit.

Driving is better in the winter because the potholes are filled with snow.

You know all 4 seasons: almost winter, winter, still winter, and road construction.

Your idea of creative landscaping is a statue of a deer next to your blue spruce.

Down South to you means Philadelphia.

Your neighbor throws a party to celebrate his new shed.

Your 4th of July picnic was moved indoors due to frost.

You have more miles on your snow blower than your car.

You find 10 degrees a little chilly.

You actually understand these jokes, and forward them to all your New England friends.