Nasty Virus....Beware!

Training and racing was going pretty well until a few weeks ago when a virus knocked me out of commission.

Apparently this thing is going around to stay away from sick folks unless you want to get it too. And trust me, you don't. Unless you like having a sore throat for over a week, constant coughing fits, sore eyes, sore muscles, chills, lack of sleep because the coughing fits, etc., and that;s not even the nasty stuff. I've never experienced anything on this level. There was only one positive, I lost 5 lbs in one week with zero exercise.

After doing nothing for over one week, I decided to try a race on Sunday too see how bad it was and it was confirmed. I was weak as can be. Ok running but the slowest biking ever. I have done nothing since. Not the greatest preparation for the next ironman race but you only can do what you can.

I do have some cool news coming and here's a hint.

Your chance to crack a smile today

Just watch and enjoy.

A quick update....oh my aching foot

It's been a long saga with my right foot.
I will spare all the fine details but it forced me to stop running in October.
After physio, X-rays, ultrasound, and an MRI, it seems the initial trauma of the injury kicked off arthritis in the area. So hopefully this gradually goes away but I think this is something I will just have to deal with for the rest of my life. If this continues like it has, there won't be too many more Ironman races in the future. I just stick to the short stuff -- what I am suited to anyway.

Running was pretty much impossible. The pain was too much. Then I gave the Hoka shoes a try.

These babies might have extended my triathlon life, only time will tell. It is still early but considering I have actually been able to run in these shoes that is a good sign. The cushioning absorbs most if not all of the impact and makes running possible. They are goofy looking shoes but I do not care at all. Right now they are my favourite pieces of equipment. At worst, they at least make me a few inches taller. I will write a review soon.

By the way, check out these socks from SLS3.

You can get them at SLS3 if you want that funky colour or Running Free for more white or black colours. If you shop at Running Free just remember to use code 11296 to save a few bucks.

Until then happy training to all.

How to flash mob and harlem shake?

I wasn't a huge fan of this flash mob and harlem shake stuff but this one is surely the best way to do it.

We need this kind of enthusiasm among the Toronto sports crowds. Too many spectators sitting on their hands in the platinum seats.

At first I thought maybe the crowd was bored and needed something to do, but the game was close and it was a huge win for the home team of Maryland.

Basketball Surprise

Great stuff! Thanks Rom!

An important message from Olivia Munn

I had a hard time getting through this. There's not much else to say.

I am now a fan of breakdancing

Fantastic stuff. Enjoy!

Welcome Back Simon!

By now you should all know of my love for titanium bikes, and especially the company Litespeed. I was put on their Factory Team in 2006, and while they've moved away from making Tri bikes, they still Rock!

Covering the Tri bike side of things is QR (Quintana Roo) - a company within the American Bicycle Group, the makers of the original Tri Bike. I rode the CD0.1 last year and loved it.

And now the great Simon Whitfield has returned to the bikes he started his career with many years ago. Simon has signed a three-year deal to ride Litespeed and QR Bikes. As Simon makes his transition to long course racing, I am sure the CD0.1 or Illicito will serve him well. They are both wind tunnel proven to be the fastest bikes out there.

Read about Simon returning to Litespeed and QR.

Welcome back Simon!

New socks fom SLS3

It is no secret that I love SLS3 products. I am in the fortunate position where I get to try a variety of products and as a fan of compression products I've tried it all. I keep coming back to SLS3, and I've plunked my own money down to get their various products because I think they are the best - even though I could get other stuff for nothing.

Plus, I love their pink butterfly socks - which I proudly wore at Ironman Louisville.

I've gotten the chance to chat and know the owner of the company over the past few years and he is a great guy. This isn't some multi-million dollar company so if I can help promote them in any way then I do.

They have just released their new brand of FXC Compression Socks and have a one week deal to take advantage of.

Introductory offer: $10 off with code "FXC" Offer valid for one week only!

These High-Tech sport compression socks are made of a special Micro Nylon, which makes them very easy to put on while delivering true 20-30 mmHg graduated compression with all its benefits:

Increased oxygen delivery to working muscles to enhance their performance. The circulation improvements also help the body to eliminate metabolic wastes like lactic acid. The combination of these effects allows you to work harder and longer.

• True graduated compression for increased blood flow and oxygenation.
• Mid sole air cooling channels for moisture control.
• Left and right foot specific shape plus separate knitting zones for a perfect fit.
• Achilles Tendon, Toe and Heel padding for shock absorption and protection.
• Antimicrobial fibers for odor control. 

Just sowing my wild Oates

Sorry if you are not into this music, but I am trying to expose you all to new things or older things actually, because today's music scene is quite sad. It is easier on my wallet since I am not inspired to spend my money to buy any music at all unless its my go to favourites like Foo Fighters, Winger, Tom Cochrane, Tragically Hip, and Hall & Oates to name a few.

Here is John Oates, a guy you don't normally get to hear on his own. Part of the greatest music duo of all time.

And now for an older drugs in sport story

While one guy is feeling the wrath of the sporting world, and so he should, another seemed to get away with it. 9.79 is a great documentary. But here is a bit more to get you thinking.

Preferential treatment? Equal prosecution for all? Cover up to serve own interests? Unfortunately, I am not sure this will ever go away.

For all you Winger fans

I still love this band. Kip and crew are still around making music. Kip is back to his classical roots but he managed to slip in some electric and bring in some of the band to play with the Colorado Symphony Orchestra. I wish I was there that night.



I have written a few words about a certain banned cyclist. To be published soon. Till then enjoy some music.

If you barely remember Winger or have no clue (shame on you) then here is some vintage stuff:



The making of one of my favourite albums ever --- Pull.



Remember the Arsenio Hall Show? (actually is coming back in 2013)

Two Greats to start the New Year

This happened back in the summer but its a great clip of two greats in action. I am much more of a fan of Tom Cochrane though.

Enjoy!

Happy 2013!

Happy New Year to you all!

Sorry for the less than regular posts but I warned you a long time ago that I am busy with Triathlon Magazine Canada, Ironman, and MultiSport Canada.

Feel free to check out my work there, and at the Team Running Free site. I will still try to at least post something here once per month or any time I write a race report.

Coaching is keeping me busy too. The athletes I worked with in 2012, due to their own hard work, achieved great things and pb's, and there will be more to come in 2013. I am excited to see everyone accomplish their goals.

My foot is still messed up but hopefully I will clear that hurdle in time to get some good training in for race season. And if not, I can still throw my energy into my athletes and friends on the race course.

All the best to you in 2013.

Foo Fighter Dudes and some other guy

Doggie Surfin'

I would say, I wish my dogs could do this, but I actually wish I could do this.

Lest We Forget

Apply to Team Running Free

Team Running Free is now accepting applications for the 2013 season.

It is a great Team and concept, and the store owners and staff are top notch as well.


If you have a great attitude, enjoying being active in the community, and want to participate
as a member of Team RF in 2013, DOWNLOAD an APPLICATION FORM (pdf). The deadline for submission is November 30, 2012.

Find out more about the team at www.teamrunningfree.com

Cycling's Dirty Truth

Quite interesting stuff!

Incredible Bike Riding

Maybe one day.........