Karen and Kate were back in the Diabetes Foundation Aotearoa office on Tuesday after a busy few days away for the annual Lake Taupo Ironman. This time they were doing the 70.30 or half Ironman event and they reported back on their experiences, each covering the total distance of around 113km over three disciplines.
The day began standing in the dark with over 1000 other athletes, and as the sun started to come there was the wonderful welcome from mana whenua, Tūwharetoa. The event itself commenced with a 2km swim in the lake in conditions that were made challenging by waves and wind, resulting in slower times than expected. After the swim came a 90km cycle, also challenging as a headwind developed on the way back to Taupo from Reporoa. Finally there was a 21km run along a two lap, mostly lakeside course.
Kate completed her event on time in 8 hours 19 minutes. Karen did the course in 8 hours 35 minutes which did mean she came in 5 minutes after the cut-off...she was pleased enough though to complete the distance successfully and even happier that she still got the finisher medal and towel. Both reported thoroughly enjoying the day in spite of the challenging weather conditions, and are happy to have no ill effects after. Always they are inspired by the incredible stories of some of the people out their giving their all in these events and Karen also admits to a high point of getting drinks handed to her by legendary Ironman Cameron Brown at one of the drink stations.
So the question was asked about whether the move to the half Ironman 70.3 distance is permanent or will either consider a return to the longer event? They both respond with a variation on "never say never", though both admit that training is much more enjoyable and not nearly as "life consuming" for the shorter distance.
As for what is to come, both are still considering their plans for the year. Signing up for events has been a great way to provide the motivation to stay fit over the years and neither are ready to give up the benefits of that fitness just yet. Their advice to those having trouble to committing to being active remains...line up a friend (or friends) to train with and be motivation and just sign up for something! For now though, recovery is their priority, so some time for repair both physically and mentally is on the cards. At this stage it also looks like for 2025 the Taupo 70.3 is a strong probability, and Karen is still working on her goal of 60 marathons before she turns 60, she's done 52 so far. Good luck team!
