Cleveland Here I come...!

I am very excited that the weekend is almost here.

We have been planning for this weekend for a long time now. You are not going to believe the items we have been able to collect and we will have to offer for the raffle on Sunday. If you are going to participate in the Greater Cleveland Triathlon you have to allow yourself some extra time at the packet pickup on Saturday and stop by the polka-dot tent and check out what NATT and the Clot Buster all about. Of course if you stop by you will need to participate in our raffle and get your chance to win some really cool prices.

I am not sure if I should give anything away but I can't resist so here is a little something to peak your interest...

Yes, you too can have an aero-helmet like the one the Clot Buster wears. However, the one we are offering for the raffle will not have any polka-dots but I will have them available if you would like to "decorate" the new helmet that you could potentially win!

So, how am I feeling three days before the race? Well, I am ready to rock and roll. I have done everything that I can to put myself in a position to complete the run without my usual walk during the last 4 miles of the half-marathon. I am also keeping an eye oy my salt consumption as I think that it may be the source of some of my problems. I am very pumped to get going on this race. The new ISM Saddle from Blackwell Research is also something new I am trying out in a race for the first time. I have some miles on it but no race miles yet. This should be interesting for sure.

GCT is my second to last race of the season. That much closer to complete my 300 Miles of racing for this summer. Have you thought about matching a donation to each mile that I race? It is not too late to help NATT to continue their mission in spreading the word about blood clots and blood clotting disorders.

I hope to be smiling like this before the race on Sunday.

See you in Cleveland on the shores of Lake Erie!

Thank you for reading,

The Clot Buster

Preparations Continue

A week from today I will be racing at the Greater Cleveland Triathlon Half Iron Distance race. This is a race is one I am very excited to because of what we have planned for both Saturday and Sunday. I don't want to tell you too much about it because if you happen to be around the Cleveland area next weekend you need to come out to Headlands State beach and check it out for yourself.

My preparation is going well. This weekend I had a good brick workout on Saturday that may put me over the edge in terms of my troubles coming off the bike and going onto the run. Stay tuned because I may able to do a first on my half iron distance racing. We will see how it turns out. I am looking forward to it.

If you are in Cleveland don't miss your opportunity to meet the Clot Buster and learn a whole lot about NATT and their mission.

Of course not all is workouts... I do get the chance to do an array of other things, especially on my days off so tha I can recover and begin my tepering. Today we got the chance to the Dublin, OH Irish Festival. Bring on the Irish Stew and a Killian's Irish Red before noon! I do love Irish Festivals. The Irish Music is one that I enjoy a great deal . It is always a treat.

So, we go on to the last week before the Greater Cleveland Triathlon.

Has anyone seen a helmet like this out there for sale?

I keep trying to find one of these at a reasonable price but they keep avoiding me. I am going to find one someday. In the mean time I need to find some red paint to paint my aero helmet with the "Clot Buster" colors. I hope that I stay within the lines...

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

Tour Over, 10 Mile Road Race, Blood Clots and Blood Clotting Disorders

Well, the Tour is over and I have to say that despite all the drama I think that it turned out very well. How cool was that Time Trial on Saturday? Levi almost took the whole enchilada, Evans rode "a magical" last 5Km to stay ahead, and Mr. Alberto Contador rode a perfect time trial to stay on top. I have to confess that while riding on my trainer at home I watched the entire last 2 hours of coverage while "ticking over" the pedals. I set a new record of trainer riding that day. I could not believe it when I was done...


I have not been able to find anything about the sponsor that will take over for Discovery Channel. Who would it be? How about the new American Cycling powerhouse team Splistream? Will Chipotle continue to sponsor them? Man, a Chipotle burrito sounds good right now...

Sunday, I had the chance to race in a 10Mile road race that is part of the training series for the Columbus Marathon in October. Although a marathon is not in the horizon for me I decided to take on this 10Mile course to test the legs ahead of the Greater Cleveland Triathlon - Half Iron distance race coming up in a couple of weeks. To my surprise the race went well. I was able to keep a nice pace of 7:10 per mile which I did not think I could do at this distace. I tried hard but I am still paying for the effort today. The legs are very sore but this is a pain that I don't mind at all. I was able to place second in my age group, that was a nice icying on the cake. Liz also ran on Sunday and on the 10K she came in as the fourth lady overall and of course dominated her age group. She always keeps me honest with her results.

Don't forget that all of my efforts doing these triathlons is to get NATT's name out there and hopefully peak your interest about the dangers about blood clots and blood clotting disorders and possibly inspire you to help this worthy organization with a donation that could match the number of miles I am racing this summer (300 Miles all together and I am only two races away from completing my goal). Here is a breakdown for your if you are interested on how you could match a donation...

$0.05 per Mile x 300 Miles = $15.00
$0.10 per Mile x 300 Miles = $30.00
$0.25 per Mile x 300 Miles = $75.00

Please contact me if you are interested in making a donation.

For the last few rides I've been testing out this new ISM Seat from Blackwell Resarch and I have to tell you that there is a big difference when compared to regular saddles. I am still testing in out but so far the numbness that I used to experience is gone. Although my sit bones are not used to their new line of work on the bike I think that this a switch that I am gladly coming around to do. Does anyone have some experience with this saddle? What did you like or dislike about it?

Time to catch some Z's. Track workout tomorrow AM and ride in the PM. Following up my effort from Tuesday with the same double.

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

What do you think about the Tour this year?

I need to ask the question because I don't know what to think. It is very dissapointing to see a big name like Vino's tarnished because of doping. What drives these guys to put everything on the line? Does that momentary success of winning a stage of the tour really matters that much over ALL of your career? Of course, we don't know about his B sample but he will never be the same. We will always question his ability from here on out. I wish that it did not have to be that way but unfortunately it is. Maybe he will come back but if he get's the two year I don't believe he will be able to do it. Part of me wishes that his B sample comes back negative but will only prolongue the agony as they will try to figure out why the A sample was positive. All together not a good situation at all.


In regards to Rasmussen, I can't make any heads or tails about this. Could his team punish him after the race? He has never tested positive in this tour so on that respect he can't be judged. However, breaking the rules is breaking the rules but if I was his team and he is leading the Tour fair and square then I would try to figure out some sort of punishment after the event. Of course I don't know the amount of pressure the team was under with the information they had so they get the benefit of the doubt from my end on that respect. But, could there be any other way to go about this? Would he return to professional cycling? Do you think that he would have won the race after the Time Trial? Should I go ahead and watch the two mountain to finishes that I have DVR'd? Right now I am hesitant. What should I do?


Well, this training week is going well. Good swim sessions so far where I felt really strong and smooth in the water. I had the chance to ride a couple of times this week as well and on Sunday I am will be runnig a 10 Mile race so after a week off running we will see how that is going to go.


Pretty exciting that my vegetable garden is producing some goods already. We started our pretty late in the spring but I am thrilled with my first batch of Hungarian Peppers.

These guys may look small but they sure pack a punch...

Be careful eating them alone... but they are great in salads!

So, let's see how this 10 Miller turns out on Sunday.

By the way, if you are coming to the Greater Cleveland Triathlon on August 11th and 12th be sure to stop by the Clot Buster's Tent and check out the INCREDIBLE stuff we will have available for raffle to benefitting NATT. Stopping by the polka-dot tent is almost as important as picking up your packet. Don't miss this chance of potentially scoring some great products.

Huge Thanks to Mickey Rzymek for his help. Also, BIG THANKS to 2nd Sole of Rocky River for their support on this raffle. Your local age-group super star Deirdre Callahan and her family have been a great help and I can't them enough.

Please come by on the weekend of August 11th and 12th.

We look forward to see you.

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

The Weekend It Was

Dear readers,

What a blast I had this weekend. I have no idea about where should I begin. Very exciting to have the chance to be able to go to Cleveland and hang out with my good friend Deirdre and her famliy so that she could take me to the practice run of the Greater Clevelant Triathlon. How cool is that you get to prepare for a race on the course that the organizer sets up for you just like it would during the race. Swimming in lake Erie was an experience that morning. There were some serious waves that morning. It was intimidating at first but when I saw Deirdre and her husband jump in the water without any care in the world I had to put my fears away and jump right in. We got tossed around pretty good but it was fun. I got the chance to preview the bike course as well. It should be a fun time on the bike while we make our way through the 56 Miles around Mentor, OH. There is a little bit of everything out there so I need to get my bike in time for sure.

Even cooler was to see the Kids Race practice run. I was blown away by the interest of the 6 to 12 years old so eager to do the swim, bike, and run. I got to meet to girls (no more than 10 years of age) who were so into the sport that each had their own trek bike with clipless pedals! I could not believe my eyes. I was told by them that later on their father will let them graduate to aero-bars. But all together, I really enjoyed the kids running around and listening to the race organizer/director Mickey Rzymek tell them all of the instructions so that they can be race ready. I can't wait to Saturday August 11th to watch the race in full force.

It was a great pleasure to meet all the folks from the Cleveland Triathlon Club (CTC) who came out for the practice day. I look forward to race against you guys on Sunday August 12th. I also look forward to meet a number of you during the expo on Saturday before when you will have the chance to participate in the CLOT BUSTER RAFFLE @ THE GREATER CLEVELAND TRIATHLON.

So, that was Saturday, on Sunday I lined up to participate in the Columbus International Triathlon which is part of the Clot Buster's races series this summer. Surprisingly enough I did not feel tired at all from Saturday's fun. I went out there and the swim went well. I was able to get the two lap swim course done in about 25 minutes which is not a bad time considering the traffic we had in the water once the sprint distance people got in the water. The bike course at this race is one my favorites ever. Getting the chance to ride on a major highway within the city is REALLY COOL and VERY FAST. I am always amazed at the speeds I can go during this bike leg. I was able to average a speedy 22.8 MPH for 25.5 Miles which is one of my fastest bike splits ever. Very pleased about that I have to confess.

Look closely and you can see me with my fancy helmet heading out from T1. Should I get some polka-dots painted on that helmet? What do you think?

Here you go working on my 22.8 MPH...

From there we went to the run. Believe it or not I have the Olympic distance run of a 10K pretty much down these days. I know that 45 minutes for a 10K is far from world class but for the Clot Buster this is very good and very motivating because I know that I have what it takes to bring it down some more. I know of some speed workouts I need to do to get this time to come down some more. It is getting better and that is all I can ask for.

BIG CONGRATULATIONS to my wife's cousin Brian Jones who came out on Sunday to try his hand at his first duathlon. He even placed SECOND in his age group, how about that!!! BRIAN CONGRATULATIONS! Now give me my bike back!

Brian and his father Tim... CONGRATULATIONS Brian! Well done!

So, after all this I had only one more thing to do this weekend. Get showered and rested so that I could head to downtown Columbus and take part in the Jazz and Ribs festival. This is one of my favorite festivals in the city. The music is great but the ribs are even better. Oh! I can't even begin to explain how good they were. Although, I had difficulty walking I enjoyed the chance to go and enjoy some of the food.

So, I've been writing this post for several days now. During this time, so much has happened I can't believe it. Will there be any people left at the Tour before it gets to Paris? You have to be kidding me about the doping going on here... I am blown away. But I can write about on a later post.

For now, HUGE NEWS for the CLOT BUSTER RAFFLE @ THE GREATER CLEVELAND TRIATHLON. I am so excited about these news that I need to wait a little while before I let you know about just so that I can peak your interest. But I can sure that it is good, VERY GOOD!!!

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

Greater Cleveland Triathlon - Practice Run & Pre-Race Auction still ON!!!

I hope that Cleveland is ready for the arrival of The Clot Buster on Saturday. I am very much looking forward to the opportunity to train on the actual race course at which I will be racing on in a few weeks time. GCT, I hope, will be bringing a new PR for the Clot Buster at the half-iron distance race.

People in Cleveland I am bringing the polka-dots so please don't be surprised when you see the red dots running around your race course on Sarturday.

This week I've been resting my tired legs and just taking it easy. I am not sure how I will feel on Saturday and later on Sunday for the Columbus International Triathlon to be raced around Antrim Lake in one of my favorite courses ever. If you want to participate in a fast Olympic distance race this one is a good one... But really this weekend will be shocking my body for sure. Stay tuned and see my report as soon as I can give it. One thing is for sure the ribs at the Jazz and Ribs Festival on Sunday will be tasting really good.

For your information the Auction continues to be on. So, if you are interested in the goods below please place a bid. Not only you are getting some nice products but also helping a great organization while you are it. Would be interested in knowing how many athletes who have suffered from blood clots I have met through my Clot Buster fundraising? Stay tuned for a report on that very soon... there are far more than what you can think! Please consider helping out if you have the chance! Below you can find the products in question:

SPIUK - ORION VEST (Available Size = Large) Starting Bid = $65.00 (Retail value $119.99)

HUTCHINSON - TOP SPEED Road Racing Tires (2 Tires) Starting Bid = $45.00 for both tires (Estimated retail value $32.99 per tire)

SPIUK - Exclusive Tri Tops (Available in sizes = Medium & Large and Colors = Orange and Yellow) Starting Bid = $45.00 (Retail value = $79.99)

VERGE SPORTS - NATT Jersey (Available size = Large) Starting Bid = $50.00 (Estimated Retail value = $75.00 + you will look EXTREMELY good displaying those polka-dots colors! I may even throw in a stylish "Clot Buster" head band if you ask nicely!)

Take a good look at the previously listed items and PLACE A BID! NATT's mission of educating people about blood clots and blood clotting disorders sure can use your support through this auction.

If you have any questions please don't hesitate to ask. All of these products I use for my regular training and racing so I can tell you all about them.

If you know of anyone interested in these goods from the Pre-Race Auction please let them know!

Thanks for Reading,

The Clot Buster

Muncie Endurathon

"To Finish or Not To Finish" that is one of the thoughts that came through my mind while attempting to run miles 8, 9, and even 10 of the half marathon this past Saturday. Although, I never stopped moving the thought came across my mind. Once more the run portion of the half-iron distance triathlon really broke me down. Even after conserving some energy during the ride the legs did not have enough power to finish up the run in good fashion. Well, maybe next time I will be able to put together a good run. The next time this season will be the Greater Cleveland Triathlon at which I need to improve this bloody running because it is my next half-iron distance race.

All right, in order for that to happen I am going to need some wisdom/knowledge from those of you who read this blog. Please let me know any suggestion or tip you have in your bag of tricks that you are willing to share so that the Clot Buster can string together the run of his life in his upcoming half-iron distance race in Cleveland on August 12th. I am already looking forward to the race and your suggestions on how I can break through this issue I have with the run.

I am convinced that my mind is letting me down during the run and because I am feeling the fatigue from the effort the thought of walking and take it easy for a while always wins over my desire to keep going. There's got to be some sort of formula out there I can implement. If you know of something I can use let me know and I'll make sure to try it.

I do have to say that the course and the organization for this race were GREAT. If you are looking for a fast triathlon this one you need to do. Although the last 7 miles on the bike are a little rough the rest of it is a lot of fun. There was some wind out there but it was not a problem for me as I was trying to save some energy for the run... go figure. But all things considered I HIGHLY RECOMMEND this race to anyone looking for a fast half-iron distance race. Hopefully, some day I will be back to Muncie and I will show them how is done for sure!

So, after the race on Saturday I continued to rest and allow my body to recover a little. Big weekend ahead as I plan on heading to Cleveland on Friday night and spend Saturday morning training on the course of the Greater Cleveland Triathlon. Pretty cool that the organizers of the race are setting up this practice runs so that you get a good feel for what is to come during race day. Then after that practice run I will be heading back home and resting for the Columbus International Triathlon that will take place on Sunday. I have no idea how my body will react to this weekend's activities but one thing is for sure, after the race I am heading to the Jazz and Ribs Festival and I will enjoy some of the award winning ribs that come to Columbus once year just so that I can have a little taste...

By the way, the Pre-Race Auction from the Muncie Endurathon STILL OPEN as I am combining it with the Pre-Race Auction that would take place for the Columbus International Triathlon. So, go on, keep reading and PLACE A BID!!!

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

BIG RACE this coming Saturday...

BIG PRE-RACE AUCTION with all of the profits going to help NATT!


For the fourth time this season here we are once more to get another Clot Buster Pre-Race Auction underway. Because I am racing a half-iron distance race this weekend and because it is my fourth race of this summer on my quest of 300 racing miles, this pre-race auction will have 4 items available to you so that you can pick and choose which ever suits you best.


Please take some time and browse on. If you see something that catches your eye go ahead and make a bid. You can either place a bid through the comments section of this blog or just shoot me an email at polka40@hotmail.com. If you end up as the winner or the item we will make arrangements and have to goods shipped to you in no time at all.


So, here are the goods up for auction in the week before my attempt to conquer the Muncie Endurathon...


SPIUK - ORION VEST (Available Size = Large) Starting Bid = $65.00 (Retail value $119.99)

HUTCHINSON - TOP SPEED Road Racing Tires (2 Tires) Starting Bid = $45.00 for both tires (Estimated retail value $32.99 per tire)

SPIUK - Exclusive Tri Tops (Available in sizes = Medium & Large and Colors = Orange and Yellow) Starting Bid = $45.00 (Retail value = $79.99)

VERGE SPORTS - NATT Jersey (Available size = Large) Starting Bid = $50.00 (Estimated Retail value = $75.00 + you will look EXTREMELY good displaying those polka-dots colors! I may even throw in a stylish "Clot Buster" head band if you ask nicely!)

So, take a good look at the previously listed items and PLACE A BID! NATT's mission of educating people about blood clots and blood clotting disorders sure can use your support through this auction.

If you have any questions please don't hesitate to ask. All of these products I use for my regular training and racing so I can tell you all about them. They sure will come in handy while I am racing a half-iron distance race this weekend! Wish me luck, I am going to need all that you can provide. Let's see if I am able to put together a nice run after the 56 Miles of the bike. That is the Big question for this race in Muncie.

If you know of anyone interested in these goods from the Pre-Race Auction please let them know!

Thanks for Reading,

The Clot Buster

Finally a little time to write...

Things are going well around here. It seems that I am way busier than I what I want to be because I don't have time during the day to sit down and write. Before I realize it the clocks around the house indicate to me that it is time to pack it up and hit the sack for the day. I am very much focused on my long distance training and many other things around the house along with some special events that this is first time in many days that I am actually sitting at the computer at home updating my blog.

The Muncie Endurathon is coming up next weekend and I wish nothing more than to put together a good race finishing it up with a solid run. In all of my half-iron distance races the run has been my weakest point just because I can't string together a nice and smooth half-marathon. This time around I hope to come out and run the whole distance regardless of the pace. It will be nice to finish under 5:15 but I will not worry about unless I am putting together a nice run. Luckily my plantar fascia is improving a lot and although I feel some soreness after a longer run I am able to stay with it. I mean, if you were to see my time from my last 10K at my last race you would think that I got a new plantar fascia that is making me run faster...

The season is going much better than anticipated. So far in 4 races all together, I've been able to place in the top 6 of my age-group in all of them and well inside the top 25 finishers overall. I just hope that as the season continues the donations for NATT continue to arrive and provide the hard working NATT volunteers the much needed funds to continue their effort of educating about blood clots and blood clotting disorders. Speaking of blood clots and blood clotting disorders, PLEASE TAKE SOME TIME to read the article that was published in the Kansas City Star about this young soccer player named Matt Groenwald who plays professionally for the Kansas City Wizards and his encounter/experience with a very massive clot that could have taken his life. Yet another example of how blood clots and blood clotting disorders can affect anyone regardless of age and physical condition. It is great to hear that he is safely recovering and in the path to return to the field. Maybe I get the chance to meet him and he can help me with some of my soccer moves or just maybe I can teach him some of my South American flavor soccer moves...

All right, just to make this post that much longer checkout some more pictures from my last race and the debut of the Clot Buster's "New Lid" kindly provided by my good friends at DPMsports.

And there you have it... the best picture I could find with the New Lid.

Another look, I know not the best but it will have to do for now.

In the final stretch of the race just about to reach my PR in Olympic Distance racing!

SUCCESS!!!

As my parents would say... "Tu eres LOCO" (do you need me to translate that...?!?!)

And finally, after 40 some years since sitting in a kayak my dad gave it a try...although he tipped over once I think he had a superior time. No amount of money could ever equal to see him just going at it with that spark in his eyes. At 66 years of age he really had a blast! I can only hope that I can be as active as he is at that age... Man, I sure miss them when they are not around.

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

PERSONAL BESTS!!!

Wow!

I did not know that on Sunday at Alum Creek I was going to have my best ever Olympic Distance race. The Fat Rabbit Racing International Triathlon had the set up that I've been waiting for to have my fastest splits ever.

The weather was great on Sunday. It was nice and cool and that helped me a great deal while being out there doing the swim, bike, and run. Also, I had the extra motivation of having my parents in town for a second race so I was racing very much inspired that day. I was very pleased to keep my swim pace very consistent and I came out of the water feeling very good. I think that the coffee I drank before the race during my preparation had something to do with how I was feeling. So, out of the water I was looking forward to wear the newest addition to my gear. The Kronos Helmet from my good friends at DPMSports (http://www.spiukusa.com/) was a treat.

I don't know if it really made me faster but I sure felt like I was flying out there as I thought I was slicing through the air on my bike (more pictures of the helmet and it's special decoration to follow). Did I have the fastest bike split out there? Not at all but it was fast and a ton of fun for me. During the run, thanks to the reduced heat, I was keeping a blistering pace for me. I could see people ahead of me and I was picking them up one by one. We had a two loop run course and generally in courses like that on the second lap I tend to slow down some but on Sunday I was feeling very good and kept up my pace. Maybe the training that I am doing with my runs has improved my performance during race time. I guess that only time will tell when I get to race on hot conditions to see how I keep up.

So, here are my splits if you care to know:

SWIM (1500 yds) = 23:22

BIKE (25 Miles, ~ 24.1) = 1:07:41

RUN (6.2 Miles) = 45:48

OVERALL = 2:20:47 (24th place overall) and 6th place in the 30-34 age group.

So, I am very happy with my performance and I am looking forward to do some long distance training for my next challenge in Muncie, IN.

Don't forget that all of my efforts doing these triathlons is to get NATT's name out there and hopefully peak your interest about the dangers about blood clots and blood clotting disorders and possibly inspire you to help this worthy organization with a donation that could match the number of miles I am racing this summer. Here is a breakdown for your if you are interested...

$0.05 per Mile x 300 Miles = $15.00

$0.10 per Mile x 300 Miles = $30.00

$0.25 per Mile x 300 Miles = $75.00

Please contact me if you are interested in making a donation.

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

Fat Rabbit Racing International Triathlon PRE-RACE AUCTION

Well, here we are again closing in on another race date so it is time for another PRE-RACE AUCTION.

The offerings in this auction are very cool and you should definitely take advantage for your persoanl satisfaction and for the chance to help an organization that is doing great good creating awareness about blood clots and blood clotting disorders.
So, here are the goods...


** A LARGE NATT Racing Jersey (Estimated value $75.00)
** 2 Boxes of Hammer Gels (Chocolate and Banana flavors - Estimated value $15.00 per box)
** 2 Hutchinson TOP SPEED Road Racing Tires (Estimated value $30.00 per tire)
** 40 NATT Wristbands to give out to anyone you know willing to support our cause (@ $3.00 per wristband estimated value $120.00)

The initial bid the Clot Buster is requesting for this package is $100.00

As always all of the profits from this auction will be giving to NATT in your behalf. So, think about it! Since I did not get around to post this PRE-RACE AUCTION until now you will have time all the way until Sunday night at 11PM to place your bid. Please place your bid either through the comments section of this blog or through an email to polka40@hotmail.com

Good solid training this week, I believe. I hope to swim tomorrow and take Saturday off to rest before the race on Sunday. Am I going to be able to continue my streak of top three finishes within the 30-34 age group? Stay tuned for the results on Sunday...

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

Cincinnati International Triathlon - Thursday and I am still recovering...

Sort of...Let me tell you that the course at this race was not flat by any means. You can read a very nice summary about the bike course race experience at Brad Culp's blog within the Triathlete Magazine webiste. Having to 3 laps of this bike course was simply something I was not ready for. Of course I have every excuse in the world for my slow times but it does not matter, I still took 3rd place in my "new" agre group 30-34.

Needless to say I was surprised about that result because during the third lap of the bike I was starting to feel extremely fatigued from the efforts that weekend. I did not help my cause when I did about 10 hours worth of yard work on Saturday and I did not get to bed until much later than I wanted because of my parents arriving into town and the need to pick them up at the airport and drive all the way to Harrison, OH from Columbus about 2 hours all together.

Let me tell you that as tired as I was off the bike it was SO COOL to see my parents on the sidelines along with my Mother and Father in law. It was very nice to have them all there giving me that extra lift to stay with it. I loved my Mom yelling at me that I it looked as if I was just taking a stroll in the park with her sarcastic tone of voice that just made me laugh and almost choke on the gel I was taking in at the time. The run went much better than I thought and I was able to clock a very respectable time.

All things considered it was a great race and one I would love to do again sometime. Now that I know course a little better I guess that I can prepare better for it.

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

Cincinnati International Triathlon - Here we go!

Taking it easy today so that I can be ready for Sunday's race in Cicinnati. I am very much looking forward to it. I've been wanting to race in Cincinnati for a long time now and finally I get the chance to do it.

This will be the second (actually third) race of the summer for the Clot Buster in his quest to reach the 300 Mile mark for the summer.

If you would be interested in heling NATT continue it's mission to educate and create awareness about blood clots and blood clotting disorders any contribution that you could match for every mile that I race could help the organization tremendously. For example here is a very simple breakdown for you:

$0.05 per Mile x 300 Miles = $15.00
$0.10 per Mile x 300 Miles = $30.00
$0.25 per Mile x 300 Miles = $75.00

If any of the options above is something you would consider please write the checkout to "NATT" and send an email to the Clot Buster so that he can give you his address. Every contribution is important to help keep NATT on track with its mission.

I hope that taking it easy tomorrow will help me to fight this fatigue I am carrying with me today. A good night of sleep should do the trick as it was a long week for me at work and on the training side of things. I am very excited to be racing in my new Mizuno shoes. I was having some heal problems last week and I decided that the shoes were causing the pain. Thanks to the wisdom of Andy Hobson at Front Runner I think that I found a nice pair of shoes that quickly are becoming my favorite. Let's see how they perform during racing conditions.

Well, with another PRE-RACE auction behind me I am looking forward to the race. Stay posted as I will have some more cool stuff up for auction the week before the race.

To all a GOOD WEEKEND!

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

Cincinnati International Triathlon - PRE RACE AUCTION

Second race of the season (acutally third because last weekend I raced two races in one day...) second pre-race auction in preparation for the Cincinnati International Triathlon.

This time around ANYONE interested in a LARGE SIZE Clot Buster Jersey will have the chance to bid and possible score one of the coolest jerseys around...

I don't want to brag too much but during the last bid I got a person interested in the jersey from Okinawa, Japan. Soon enough the Clot Busyer colors will be flying high in Japan believe it or not!

But this time around I am not just offering the nice Verge-race cut jersey I am also offering to you the goods you can see in the picture below...

That is correct you will get the chance to score two boxes of Hammer Gel energy gels (Chocolate & Banana Flavors), along with that a Hammer Gel flask, and finally an Aqua Sphere SEAL set of goggles which are red to go along with your new Clot Buster jersey!

All of these goods can be yours at the starting bid of $60.00. This is great opportunity for you to get some additional gear for the season and at the same time donate money towards a great organization that will put this money to good use in educating people about blood clots and blood clotting disorders.

If you would like to make a bid please do it either through the comments section of the blog or just shoot me an email at polka40@hotmail.com. The auction will be open until midnight on friday so don't miss out in a chance to have your very own Clot Buster Jersey and some extra goods!

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

What or who is your inspiration?

That is a question I think about a lot when I am out there either trianing or racing. I wonder a little bit more about this question during races when I see all this focused people going at it.


For me the inspiration comes from the polka-dots. I am sure you wondering how that is. Well, very simply I think about all of the polka-dots that I wear and how to me they represent someone either volunteering their time to NATT or someone who is going through all of the treatment required to stay ahead of those blood clots that could flare at any moment. I think a lot about how their life has changed due the clot and how it is possible for me to spread the word about the potential dangers from blood clots. All with the goal that people would become aware and be in the lookout for the particular signs that indicate the presence of a potential blood clot.


Hard to believe that my racing season is already here in full swing. The training is going well and things are falling in place to keep at it hard the rest of the upcoming races. Next up I get to visit the city of CINCINNATI, OH for the Cincinnati International Triathlon and Sports Festival next weekend.

PLEASE KEEP IN MIND ... $0.10 x 300Miles = $ 30.00 for NATT!!!

Don't miss the opportunity to contribute to this organization that is doing great good. If you would like more information about how to donate please drop me a line.

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

Shawnee Appalachian Triathlon - Two Races TWICE THE FUN

and TWICE THE HURT!!!

Let me start by saying that in either of these two olympic distance races I was going to reach a new PR. I have to say that the courses that HFPRacing put together were exceptional both in its difficulty and the fun. Although, I talk a lot about the pain and how much it hurt while doing the race I need to say that the course was fun pretty fun as well. Up and down, sometimes more up that down but all together it kept me very much entertained from start to finish. It was a challenge to compete on the first race during the AM and then wait about 4 hours before the next race would come about. The cool thing is that we did not have the same bike course for both races. That made a world of a difference for me. I got a GREAT tour of southern Ohio and and I have to thank the organization for putting up a great event.

The AM race was a normal swim-bike-run with a bike course that took us from the bottom of the valley all the way to the top of the ridge and back down. The down hill portions of the race were fast and at some locations you had to very careful because of the hair-pin turns we had to go through. The run course was pretty brutal as it took us out and back in this access roads that were not flat by any means. I raced very consistently on the AM race. In the back of my head I wanted to leave a little something for the second race that afternoon. So, all things considered I got the following splits:

SWIM (1 Mile) = 27:02

BIKE (24.8 Miles) = 1:25:31 (17.4 MPH)

RUN (6.55 Miles) = 55:48 (8:35 Mile Pace)

TOTAL = 2:51:57 - SECOND PLACE in the 30-34 Age Group

So after all that swim-bike-run and the mandatory stretching Mrs. Clot Buster and I decided to go into town get some food and sit on my butt to rest the body for the afternoon's festivities.

At around 2:40 or so I started to get my things together and prepare for the second serving of triathlon racing but this time it was going to be BIKE-SWIM-RUN. In this case the bike course a "nice" out and back loop that featured a very mean 1.2 Mile climb that broke everyone down. I was the second to last to leave in a time trial fashion. Keep in mind that at this point the first people who started ahead of me had left the start about 35 minutes before I did. So, as I was approaching Mile 8 of the course I noticed that I did have not see anyone coming back yet and I was starting to get concerned about where the people who started ahead me were. So finally at around Mile 9 I see the firt few guys as I was cresting the last rolling hill before heading down this monster of a climb... and there they were everyone making their way up this mountain. This climb was without a question the hardest I've ever done. Hands down I have nothing to compare it with, steep long it had it all and it put my weak legs to the test. Somehow I got up this thing and finally to the transition area just wishing I was in bed waking up from this dream... I wish I had a video to show you the struggle it was to get into the wetsuit for the 1 Mile swim we had to complete next. Let me tell you that it was a show... there is a reason why you are asked to wear your wetsuit and I find out why the hard way. Very warm body enters cool, cool water the feeling is very refreshing at first but then the slightest move out of sync made both of my hammstrings cramp up. You can't really swim while cramping up but you can float away the cramp in your wetsuit... So after struggling through a 35 minute swim I finally got out and began my shuffle through the run course. To my surprise I kept a nice even pace and I got it done faster than I first anticipated. Of course I was way slower than the first time around but I knew that in order to win my age group I had to finish... so put me down for a FRIST PLACE FINISH in the 30-34 AGE GROUP for the PM Race.

You will notice in the next set of photos that I look a lot more worned out. I am sure you can guess why...

Although, I had to fight to get through these races I am very glad that I could do them both. It was neat to exlpore that region of southern Ohio and I look forward to come back some day and try some of these climbs once more. State Route 125 I will never forget you...

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

Shawnee Appalachian Triathlon Quick Report...

OOOOUUUUCCCCHHHH!!! It really hurt...

Just let me show how I looked like after the second race on the same day...

I almost felt like everything was sideways after the race... it took me a while to re-gain my bearings...

More to come later.

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

(1Mile Swim + 25Miles Bike + 6.55Miles Run)*2=

Shawnee Appalachian Triathlon - May 26th, 2007


The Clot Buster's first race of the season is finally here... It is been a long time coming but finally it is here and I think that I am ready to go. Of course I would not be worried this much if I was doing only one olympic distance race but this weekend I am doing TWO of them... one in the AM and the other in PM.


Am I crazy? A lot people think so but I appreciate the challenge that this format will put infront of me. I have no idea how my body will react racing in the morning and then racing again in the afternoon. One thing is for sure, it will send a clear signal that we are in racing season...!


Interestingly enough the race will have some additional spice to it because it is not your usual line up... in the AM we will be doing the traditional swim-bike-run, however, in the PM they are switching things around and we will do BIKE-SWIM-RUN. How does that sound? I think that it is pretty interesting if you ask me...


Mentally I am definitely ready no question about it. The wild card here is how well the legs will respond to the effort. But you can be assured that I will finish both of the races even if I have to crawl to the finish line on the PM race.


So, it is Thursday already, have you place a bid for the Clot Buster's jersey? Don't delay if you want to look as good as I do while racing and training... REMEBER, LATEST BID is $45.00 as of this afternoon. You will be looking great and helping a very worthy organization!


Thanks for reading,


The Clot Buster

Shawnee Appalachian Triathlon PRE-RACE AUCTION === BID UPDATE

THANKS!!! To all of you had stopped by and showed interest in this auction.

HUGE THANKS!!! to those of you have placed a bid.

The highest bid as of 22:23 on 5/23 is $45.00.

This is a steal of a deal for a VERGE SPORTS jersey that will help a very worthy organization.

Keep those bids coming!

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

Shawnee Appalachian Triathlon PRE-RACE AUCTION

Greetings!

As promised, the week before every race this season I will attempt to have some items up for acution from which I hope to continue raising funds for NATT. As I've done in the past all of the net-profits from this auction will be given to NATT in behalf of the person winning the item's auction. This is a great oportunity to step up and provide NATT with much of the needed funds to continue in their mission to educate and create awareness about blood clots and blood clotting disorders.

So since the Shawnee Appalachian Triathlon is coming up the very first item for the pre-race auction will be a VERY SNAZZY CLOT BUSTER JERSEY!!! Yes, by winning this auction you can be wearing the same exact jersey the Clot Buster will be wearing for all of his races. This is a great quality jersey from Verge Sport which is race cut and ready to get out there in style! This type of jersey has an approx. value of $75.00. The initial bid for this jersey will be $30.00.

Well, here we are The Clot Buster and Mrs. Clot Buster modeling YOUR jersey!

The available sizes for the jersey are Medium and Large, so take your pick!
If you would like to make a bid please do it either through the comments section of the blog or just shoot me an email at polka40@hotmail.com. The auction will be open until midnight on friday so don't miss out in a chance to have your very own Clot Buster Jersey!

The Shawnee Appalachian Triathlon will be a very interesting race as I am planning on doing TWO OLYMPIC distance races in one day. More on that to follow... In the mean time please consider participating in this auction to help NATT.

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

The countdown has started...

Wow, hard to believe that here we are less than two weeks away from my first race of the season... time sure flies by when you are having fun planting grass and trying not to kill it...

A blast from 2006... I hope the Clot Buster colors will fly high again this summer!

Yes, The Clot Buster is getting ready for the start of the season with some solid training this last few weeks. My bike mileage is not where it needs to be in terms of being ready for the half-iron distance races I have planned for later on. I have time to get up there... I think. In the mean time I am trying to concentrate in some speed work so that when Shawnee Appalachian Triathlon rolls around in two weeks I am ready to go. At least for one of the races I am doing that day. If you don't know that race features and AM and PM Olympic distance race where in the AM you do the traditional swim, bike, and run but in the PM you bike, swim, and then run. It should very interesting. I will talk more about it when the time gets closer. Right now, I am not worrying about it too much I just want to continue healing my shoulder and getting some good training under my belt.

This year, I am trying out some new things... of course my new aero dynamic look should help me a great deal, please see bellow...

but I am also exploring the use of the aero-bar mounted water bottle for some of the longer races that I am doing. I purchased the Jetstream model so we will see how it turns out while going at it during the races. If you have some experience with this aero-bar mounted bottle I would love to hear some of your wisdom... please pass on any comments you may have!

Also, if you know of anyone who has suffered from a blood clot in the past and they are looking for any type of information PLEASE make sure you point them towards NATT's WEBSITE. There is great literature that can help people find some of the answers they are looking for.

I am very excited about the possibilities of my fundraiser this summer.

Just remember ... $0.10 x 300Miles = $30.00 for NATT!!!

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

Recovering Nicely!

The auction for the Yara Sunglasses from my friends at DPMsports is now closed. Thanks to everyone who considered and participated in the auction. More auctions with more cool gear to come throughout the Clot Buster's Triathlon Season. Stay tuned to find out more during the season...

After getting hit by a car on my to work Thursday morning I am recovering well. My right shoulder is pretty sore from the impact with a Nissan Exterra that pulled out of its driveway right infront of me. Luckily it was nothing major (I just needed to get my front wheel trued) but it was scary for sure. Someday cars and cyclists will be able to get along regardless of the time of the day.

Tuesday I am riding to work again. Let's see what happens next on my way to work...

Thank you for reading,

The Clot Buster

Don't you wish you had more time...!

With such a nice weather out there I can't help but to be outside doing everything but updating this blog...

Great training today with a ride to work in the AM (where I got to witness a very beautiful sun rise) about 21 Miles worth and then in the PM a nice 47 minute run at a conservative pace. I continue to attempt my build up for the season but my legs seem very shocked about the double effort today even after the several hours of separation. Slowly I am coming around I just have t be patient, I guess.

Hard to believe that I will be racing my first race of the season very soon. 300 Miles worth of racing for this year's fundraisng challenge.

Just remember ... $0.10 x 300Miles = $30.00 for NATT!!!

Don't miss the opportunity to contribute to this organization that is doing great good. If you would like more information about how to donate please drop me a line.

Are you still wondering about the Clot Buster's new hair style? Here is a little taste of the new look...

Check out the concentration on my friend's face... there is Matt the artist, doing his best to help the Clot Buster be that much faster than you..!

DON'T FORGET TO PLACE A BID ON THE AUCTION FOR THE YARA SUNGLASSES FROM DPMSPORTS!!! Please read below for more details.

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

Clot Buster's Fundraising Auction - Part II

This is a great opportunity to get your hands on a superior package of goods headlined with the super sleak Yara Eyewear from my good friends at DPMSports. Please checkout their webiste if you have the chance. The gear they have is simply fantastic...

PLEASE KEEP IN MIND THAT ALL OF THE NET PROCEEDS FROM THIS AUCTION WILL BE DIRECTED TO NATT IN A FORM OF A DONATION TO THE ORGANIZATION IN YOUR NAME.

If you are interested in any of these items please place your bid in the comments section of this post. If you don't have a google account please email me with your bid to polka40@hotmail.com (those people bidding through email will have their bids posted on the comments section by me, in order to give people a fair chance of knowing where the bids stand). The Auction will be open through Friday May 11th at midnight. The highest bidder at time will receive the goods with shipping arranged by the Clot Buster.

The YARA SPORT SUNGLASSES

The frame is made from Grilamid, a flexible, ultra-light, and resilient material. The frame ensures structural robustness and high stability with minimum weight which coupled with an anatomic nose bridge, interchangeable lenses and a design that adapts to your face with superior peripherial vision makes the YARA SPORT SUNGLASSES a must have when flying on the bike and eating up the competition on the run. Retail price for this glasses generally runs about $107.00.
Along with the sunglasses the Clot Buster and his friends from North Coast Multisport are throwing in 12 Banana Hammer Gels and 12 Chocolate Hammer Gels that you can fill in your own Hammer Gel Flask. Also, because we want for you take care of your eyes from the very start of the race we are including a pair of Aqua Sphere Large Format Goggles (Red Frame with UV protection). Plus, we are adding a copy of the 2007 Multi-Sport Directory (a $7.95 value) all yours because of your decision to help NATT in this auction.

The auction for the Yara Sport Sunglasses will start at $75.00

Please consider this package of goods and at the same time providing a donation to an organization that is doing great good out there educating about blood clots and blood clotting disorders.

Thanks for reading and happy bidding...

Don't fear more goods to be offered as the season draws closer. I hope to have something up for bid the week before each of my races. So, checkout my racing schedule and keep an eye on the blog. Good things will be available at your finger tips. The bigger the race the cooler the gear up bids.

The Clot Buster

I am here...

Dear followers of The Clot Buster,

I did not count on being away from the blog for this long but after my 30th shin dig it took me this long to recover from the party we had...

I wish that I could tell you that I went away for a week to train for the start of the 2007 fundraising season but that is not entirely true either. The truth is that Mrs. Clot Buster and I took a nice vacation to attend one of my host sister's wedding in St. Johns, US Virgin Islands. I owe more than I can ever give back to my host family who provided me with the opportunity to come to this country and let me begin my journey to LIVE THE AMERICAN DREAM. Getting invited to this wedding was an icredible honor and I am very pleased that we were able to swing it.

But don't fear I am not entirely out of shape yet although we did our fair share of celebrating down in St. Johns with the traditional "pain killers." So, The Clot Buster is getting back into the swing of things. Just wait until you get to see the new "island" due I am sporting these days...

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

Roland's 30th Shin Dig (with photos)!

Check out some pictures from the party my Lovely wife threw for me...

How about a pinata for your birthday...!?!?!

Everyone gets the chance to join in the fun... first Liz got a chance at it!

and then some other brave friends ventured in the challenge... notice who gets to control the "live" pinata. It was great fun all around!

Everyone did a fantastic job singing. You don't get a house full of people doing that very often. It was very cool. I greatly appreciated it!



So know that I finished all of the left over sweets that we had available in the house it is time to get back into the swing of things. Serious riding to be done this weekend as the weather will be sensational. I am really excited that the weather is improving. I had some great rides this week so far and I look forward to tomorrow to start the weekend.

Thank you for checking out the pictures from my birthday. I feel a great deal of wisdom now that I turned 30... and to tell you the truth I realized that I make those polka-dots really good out at the races.

Thank you for reading,

The Clot Buster

Roland's 30th Shin Dig!

Wow!!!

Happy Birthday Mr. Clot Buster!!! I would only do this selfish post because tomorrow April 17th is officially my birthday. Hard to believe that I am here already. It is been an INCREDIBLE ride so far and I can only hope that it keeps going for many more years and I get to share them with all of you in some way as we get to cross paths.

My Lovely wife put together a sensational celebration for me last Saturday. THANK YOU VERY MUCH to every who came and shared with us. I am very grateful for everyone's friendship. I would like to give an especial Thank You to Deirdre, Bill, Liam, and Conor who found their way from their vacation down south and on their way back to Cleveland to stop by and take part on the shin dig. That was truly a surprise that I will cherish that for a long time to come along with everyone else who came and of course my pinata!!!

Pictures soon to come!

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

Thrombosis and Thrombophilia Weekly Facts

So here is your second edition of the Thrombosis and Thrombophilia Weekly Facts...

What do you know about In Flight Fitness to avoid DVT's?

In flight exersies are very important to take into account for anyone traveling long distances by air. NATT's website has some really interesting articles on the subject. Please click here for the one that gives you all the details you need to know to do everything in your power to prevent potential DVT's during long air travel.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

That much closer to be a member of a new Age-Group. How is that going to go? I will be in the "young" echelon of this group so there is some relief there. I really can't wait to get things going and start the racing this 2007.

This year The Clot Buster will be stepping up his challenge to 300 Miles of racing all together during the 7 races he plans to do. Checkout the side bar for more details one the races that I will be doing this year. I even have new additions to the polka-dot outfit that are going to make me look that much better. Look out for them this summer...

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

The Clot Buster in TRIATHLETE MAGAZINE (sort of)

Believe it or not the Clot Buster was quoted on Triathlete Magazine on-line...

What do you think about that?

Does anyone have any words of wisdom for someone entering a new decade in his life? I am getting bumped up to a new age group here in about 8 days. What should I expect? Will my times get better? Will my edurance improve? Will I have better racing strategies? Will I be able to fundriase more for NATT? How many more auctions can I do? What items should I have for auction?

I can't lose anymore hair so I am set on that department. However, I do wonder if less hair will indeed make me faster...

As I enter this new decade of my life, I wonder if I should just go for broke and just shave whatever hair I have left and see what happens. Should I do it? I definitely need your help. Please let me know...

I hope everyone had a Superior Easter Holiday.

Oh the desserts at our Easter celebration were sensational... I need to work them off now.

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

Thrombosis and Thrombophilia Weekly Fact

Outside of raising funds for NATT (which is coming along really well... Thanks for wondering), I would like to use this resource to pass along some basic knowledge about blood clots and blood clotting disorders. There is not one day that goes by in which I don't get to learn something new about this topic.

So, as I learn I would like for some of the people out there to learn as well. Overtime, I hope that all of us become aware that knowledge is power when it relates to blood clots and blood clotting disorders.

What is Thrombosis?

A blood clot that forms within a blood vessel. When the blockage occurs in a heart artery, it is called a coronary thrombosis.

What is Thrombophilia?

A hereditary or acquired predisposition to develop blood clots. It is also referred to as hypercoagulable state or hypercoagulability.

If you would like to dig a little dipper about these terms please visit NATT's Website and dig as far as you want...

I have to get going to the gym to get a little cross training work out in.

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

THANK YOU !!!

Thank you all very much for participating in the Clot Buster's first auction to benefit NATT.

Even if you did not have the chance to place a bid I would like to Thank You for considering it and checking out the goods up for auction. There are some folks out there that will be VERY HAPPY with their helmet and eyewear packages.

Once again I HUGE THANKS to the kind people of DPMsports and North Coast Multisports for their colaboration in this auction. I would not have been able to do it without them.

Now, in the future I plan on doing some more of this type of auction to benefit NATT. What type of gear or equipment would you be interested in having up for auction? Please let me know if you are interested to see what can be arranged.

This was great fun. The money I was able to make is going to do great good in NATT's mission to educate people about bloods and blood clotting disorders.

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster