Mark Dabrowski's Page

What a difference a year makes.

Last year I barely missed a workout, was ready for the taper and knew I had prepared to the best of my ability. The race was uneventful (sans the rain) and I finished almost exactly where my training paces dictated, 12:28.

This year I have been hampered by an inflammed achilles since late April. My running has been off and on, and almost always uncomfortable. It wasn't so much the running (though slower) as it was the recovery. I just haven't been able to put in… Continue

First run since Harriman, 3.5 pain free miles this morning!

Excersing restraint has been difficult but I believe it paid off. I waited util my achilles was pain free before starting again. Maybe I am getting smarter as I get older ;)

I replaced most runs with rides so my bike is feeling really strong. Swim has been going well too. If anything the layoff from running has allowed my to work harder at the other two. I may have lost some run fitness but I feel good about where I am overall.

So, I… Continue

Once again weathermen can't be trusted. "Rain late in the day" was the call before I left my house. "Foggy in some areas". I'll give them that.

Well, as we set up transition, it started to rain, then pour. Unfortunately along with the rain, fog rolled in. After a delay the RD announced the swim would be replaced by a 1.5 mile run. I've worked really hard on my swim and with the water a reported 62 degrees I was really looking forward to the swim. Oh well, when life gives you lemons...

Had a go… Continue

It's been quiet here in blogland as I don't like to overanlyze (or whine about) health issues as they arise. And they do. Suffice to say I've been dealing with a sore calf. The good news is I believe the worst is behind me and my bike and swim fitness have actually improved.

And so now on Saturday I put my focus squarely on my home course, the place where it all started for me 12 years ago and site of one tough Half Ironman, Harriman. I love this place. Yeah sometimes I hate it but that's just… Continue

What a diference a week makes! Returned to Harriman, this time solo thinking I'd increase the speed from last week's group ride. But, I was humbled once again by Harriman.

Went w/ the intentions of doing 4 loops (HIM course) but after a quick refuel after loop #2, I was chilled and the winds were relentless. Almost got blown into Tiarati, in fact my gu flask got blown out of my bento and I went back to get it. The 3rd climb up Lake Welch Drive was brutal (read, WINDY) and my time for each loop… Continue