When I used to love you.

I have made the decision to change my focus. Over the last 4 years my goal was to get in shape to complete a full Ironman Triathlon (2.4mile swim 112mile Ride 26.2mile run). Through 2010-2012 I had competed in a few triathlons, Duathlons, running and cycling races. All with varying results and mostly fun!
During the summer of 2012 while in training for the Vitruvian Triathlon (Half distance Ironman) I was hit by a car while I was out cycling. Although thankful for being alive, I have been left scarred, scared, battered, bruised and injured.
I had initially deferred my Vitruvian Tri place to this year (2013), but i'm now realising that the lack of training rides and runs are leaving me way behind schedule to be able to compete competitively this year. I feel, if possible, I will defer again until 2014.
I have fixed up my road bike since the accident. New forks, gear mech, brakes etc. But I have not been able to enjoy riding it like I used to. The collision with the Citroen Saxo put an end to all that. I ride a single-speed bike for my daily commute to work. This is normally a steady roll to and from work. I enjoy this most of the time but I am suffering with anxiety on the roads of Ipswich. Sometimes finding myself being over cautious at EVERY junction. I am finding most cycling far too stressful

So, what now.

                                                   I run.....

I have fallen back in love with running. Barring injury, I am feeling this is where it's at for me. I have recently started Parkrun 5k races which are awesome. I feel 5k is my distance. My current PB is 22.30. Would love to get this to 19.59 before 2014 starts. I have entered the ballot for the Virgin Money London Marathon 2014. I have been unlucky in the ballot 4 years now. Surely this is my time.
The other thing is my weight. Since starting at the Greyhound my weight has gone up. Need to sort that shit out and fast. Snacking on chips and bread is my weakness. I'm currently rocking around 13st7lb. Want to get to 12st7lb by this time next year. With focus on healthier eating.

So that's it really. Going to forget about the bike training for now. Just swimming and running for health and fun. Not forgetting the gym sessions too.

I think this song sums up how I fell about Triathlon and cycling training.

Think im gonna knock #cycling #triathlon on the head. Really enjoying my running at the moment and the other stuff stresses me out.
— Brian Powlett(@Brix2tri) May 21, 2013

The price of injury

Went to the doctors today. This was so they could check and evaluate my injuries from my accident in July. Took longer than I anticipated but hopefully will be worth while. Have been told  that the scars will remain and not fade much more due to the nature of the cuts.
The injuries have all but healed. The scars still itch like a bastard. My knees only give me discomfort when squatting. I think most of the damage is psychological. I still am quite nervous on the road when cycling and my confidence has been smashed. Really not sure how I will react if I ever get back on the saddle.

Still just hanging there in my garage the "Dirty Bike Carcass"

Next step is to wait and see what/how much the solicitor recommends putting in a claim for. Then we wait.
Still unsure what to do with any compensation too. The option of getting a new bike is nice but the second option of investing in a new business opportunity for 2013 also appeals.
Guess I will have to wait and see.  

Injury Update

Just thought I would update anyone who is interested.
Back in July I was knocked of my bike by a car making a right turn across my right of way.
I was very fortunate in that I suffered no broken bones. But I have however now been "blessed" with some massive scars down my right arm.
I have also had a few issues with my knees. They tend to get pretty sore after a few hours on my feet. I have recently resumed running and I find that a post run ice pack works wonders for them.
I am putting in a claim for compensation which is going slowly but surely. Liability has already been admitted. So I can hope to look at getting a new bike in the new year (looking at Rose TT bike)
I have an appointment with the Solicitors' Doctor next month. Think that is where they assess the injuries and damage done.
Im looking forward to 2013. I had to withdraw from a few races which included the Vitruvian triathlon. So I have re entered this for 2013 as well as Brighton Marathon. More races will follow for sure.
Any way that's it for the moment.