Update from Ironman Arizona

This past Sunday (11/23) was the second edition of the Ironman in Arizona, as NASports decided to move the race from April to November in an effort to get more reliable weather. With perfect conditions, it certainly proved to be a good decision. After a much improved swim from April, I exited the water in good position. Heading out onto the bike course, I felt really great and quickly started moving towards the front of the race. 112 miles later, I had closed to less than two minutes on the two leaders, setting the fastest bike split and a new bike course record of 4:26:12. Out on the run, I moved into the lead(!!) around mile 5 and held that position with Chris Lieto running step for step with me until I pulled away at mile 9 and was the solo leader until mile 18, when my legs started to give out a bit. I got passed by eventual winner Andreas Raelert of Germany and also Chris Lieto at that point. I went through a rough patch, but manged to come around and closed to within 20 seconds of catching Lieto for 2nd by the finish. My 2:58:43 marathon was my first time under 3-hours for the marathon and helped me to break the old course record and the 8:20 barrier with a time of 8:19:45.

Thank you TargeTraining for all your help and support in 2008. It was great season. The legs are sore, but I think they'll be ready in 2009!

© Clarke Rodgers, SportZFoto.com

Tale of the Tape
Ironman Arizona II
Nov. 23 - Tempe, AZ
1.2mile swim - 112mile bike - 26.2mile run
Place: 3rd
Total Time: 8:19:45
Margin Back From Winner: 5:29
Swim Time: 50:28
Bike Time: 4:26:12 *fastest bike split and new bike course record
Run Time: 2:58:43

Comments

[dad]

Was there, and got to watch you turn out a quality race. Good Luck in '09.

[rickTT]

Jordan great season! Congrats on everything going on for you right now!