Rachel Joyce's Comeback (13.07.2010)

It feels like a long time since I was last on the start line of a triathlon – and even longer since I was crossing a finish line! So, I am now very happy to be less than 2 weeks away from my first race of the season: Antwerp 70.3 on 25 July.

My return to training from injury has gone mostly well although I have had to exercise patience…not a quality I’m known for.  To jump start my fitness I spent one month in Aguilas, Spain, which was excellent.  Great terrain for riding, a good pool, gym and most importantly lots of sunshine! 

Once I got back to London I wanted to test myself with some smaller events to see where my fitness was and the results have been promising.  I was first woman (and third overall) at the 3.8 km OWS 220 Swim Series # 3 in a time of 48.17 – very nice to get a swim in my new Aquasphere wetsuit!  I’ve also being dipping my toes into the UK’s flourishing time trial scene.  This weekend I finished just off the podium at the UK National 100 mile TT Championships in 4^th place, and the week before I ducked under 57 minutes over 25 miles.

Antwerp will be an excellent test to see how I am doing when I put all three disciplines together.  After that I will be heading to the States to race in some more 70.3 events:  Lake Stevens 70.3 and then Timberman on 22 August.  See you at the races!