Elements of Erin 337

Today there was snow in the forecast for Vancouver.  Alternate plans were made to accomodate my training but the snow never came.  So after a 1.5 hour indoor spin class at Speed Theory, and after coffee and breakfast with friends, I headed outside on my bike. Armed with hand warmers, a water bottle I hoped wouldn't freeze and my favourite Pearl Izumi thermal bike wear and my SAA thermal jacket I rode from Richmond out towared UBC.  I stopped just before UBC for some fun hill repeats, then rode home.   Even though the temperature was just above zero, it was sunny and glorious.  Not bad for a training day in February. Happy Training!

Last weekend we headed to Whistler for some epic riding and running on the new Ironman Canada course.  I am not doing the race but 1/2 of The SAA iron distance crew is, the other 1/2 are doing Challenge Penticton.  The Challenge Penticton race is the old Ironman Canada location.  Confused?  Many are.  Regardless of which race you are doing, Whistler is an amazing and tough place to train which makes it perfect for us Iron-types. We drove up on Friday night in the warm rain.  The weather the next day was forecast as a mixed bag of sun, rain and thunder showers.  Every piece of cycling gear imaginable was packed for this trip.  Sleeveless bike jerseys all the way to thermal shoe covers and everything in between.  After checking in with at the Whistler Athlete's Centre, we met up with our group who was already there.  The Athlete's Centre has 2 options.  Two bedroom town homes or dorm style living with shared bathroom, kitchen and laun...