Just a quick update post Ironman Australia Port Macquarie. Unfortunately I due to a substantial cut in my front tyre at the 130km mark while in 2nd position (group) with one person up ahead, I had to withdraw from the race. (Please see photo attached for pic of slash in tyre - I could also not be angry for long when Matilda walked over that night with my helmet on... perspective!).
As a recap once I obtained the cut tyre I instantly spotted the sealant (used to block/clog any small holes) so I quickly put in my CO2 cartridge hoping to be back and rolling in no time.... however all the air just blew out the side and I quickly found out the size of the gash. From there I quickly changed my spare however with no air to inflate it. I was also still quite a distance away (apx 5km) from the "mechanical zone" points which are used at Ironman Port Macquarie. In short I got some air to put in my tyre about 25mins later and was back rolling.
At this point I was well off the pace but was keen to do a solid marathon to burn off some frustration and try and peg back as many guys as possible. However word from the coach was to be "smart" and save it for Ironman Cairns, The Asia Pacific Championships (Ironman Championship event) in 6wks time rather than bust the body for the sake of burning some frustration.
After the normal roll of emotions of anger, frustration, disappointment, acceptance it was time to move on and get back into the swing of things. The positives were the body felt great. I had great swim to put me in a nice position on the bike and was riding/racing smart. At the point of the flat I had only averaged 142hr and 251w... all smiles. (3.4w/kg - quite low, most events are around the 3.8-4w/kg range).
Port Macquarie Ironman Australia is always a fantastic event and one close to heart. Ironman Australia was my first ever Ironman, I have placed 1st and 2nd there. It was great to see another successful event completed there. The atmosphere is always electric.
Thanks to everyone for their help, support and kind words. Things were looking the goods! Lets carry it onto the Asia Pacific Championships in Cairns.
Best Luke.
