Japan Build
The final build-up to Ironman Japan - race strategy, pacing plans, and the week-by-week countdown to race day.
7 Weeks Out
Seven weeks out - a rest day spent looking at art instead of triathlon, a critical power test now shaping every bike session for Japan, and a swim that took longer to reach than to actually swim.
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8 Weeks Out
Eight weeks out - a week of lactate testing, hills, open water, and finally running at race pace again, with Andy out to put me through it properly.
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9 Weeks Out
Nine weeks out didn't go to plan - an eye issue ruled out swimming, and I was too sick to race the triathlon I'd entered. Back up again.
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10 Weeks Out
Ten weeks out - the biggest week yet: 10.8km swim, 9 hours on the bike, 49km of running, and building durability for what's ahead.
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11 Weeks Out
Eleven weeks out - 9.4km swim, 7 hours on the bike, 47km of running. Not a big-numbers week, just consistency and closing a few more gaps.
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12 Weeks Out
First full week of the Japan build: a 6.7km swim, 9.5 hours on the bike, 45km of running, and two hours of strength work. Twelve weeks to go.
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The Decision
Testing week gave me the data. The Kona Gap showed me what needs to change. Now it's official - in 13 weeks I'll be on the start line at Ironman Japan South Hokkaido.
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