Triathlon - I think it's a go!

Even though I registered ages ago, I've been waiting to make a decision on whether or not I'm going to do the Carlsbad Tri in 2 weeks - my first ever. After my injury and subsequent surgery (plus all that time of no cycling or running) I wasn't sure if I could do it. (I'm the one who had the gruesome "straddle injury" for those who don't know/recall.)

Well, I got back on my bike this morning for the first time in 6 weeks, and while it hurt like a mo-fo, it was doable. I could only tolerate the pain for about 7 miles. But I'm getting a different saddle, and I'll get some shorts with better padding (mine are very thin). I'm pretty sure I could tough it out for 15 miles - especially in a race scenario.

My fitness isn't where I hoped it would be, but it's not bad, all things considered. I think I'll just be sure to have fresh legs and I think it'll be fine. I'll just go with the flow and adapt. Any advice or wisdom on this ("competing" with pain or an injury) would be appreciated.

SO... anyone else doing this one? cjbruin, I think you mentioned you might?

Hey! Glad to hear things are going well...I was thinking about asking for an update but I wasn't sure you wanted to talk about it :)

I haven't signed up yet and I need to travel to Phoenix that day...still I'd like to do that event as a "hard workout" for the International length coming up the next week (7/16)...but then again, I haven't registered for that one either...what a flake! I'll let you know in a day or so.

Oops, the international length sold out six days ago...crap...

I don't mind talking about it. Especially now that the worst is over. Suffice it to say it was worse than childbirth, including the first few weeks postpartum (and I've had 3 nine-plus-pound babies naturally). I'm 95% better now and just dealing with some residual deep bruising and scar tissue. It only bugs me on the bike. And sitting on hard chairs... that kind of thing. I think I'll be as good as new in about 6 months, with constant improvement along the way. I'm optimistic. I've been able to swim (even did that a few times before the surgery) and I've been to the gym to use the recumbent bike and to spin, plus a bit of running. So I'll give Carlsbad a try and then see about lining up number two. My friend was mentioning one in LA in early October - but I don't know which one she meant. I have to ask her. Let me know if you decide to do Carlsbad.