McKirdy Trained

How do you adapt to adversity on race day?

Recognize your reality and welcome the changes with a curious point of view.

When Amanuel lined up for the @grandmasmarathon, he wasn't presented with the weather we hoped. Like thousands of others, he woke up to growing temps and rising dew points. A thickness in the air you could chew on.

We spoke over the week... "My friend, this is looking like it's gonna be a rough day, so here's what we focus on to find success..."

We talked about the nutrition in the days leading in, the pace adjustments required because of the temperatures, and we spoke about the nutritional concepts during that would allow for the best chance of a great race.

We didn’t have to worry about attire because Bakline makes the lightest gear available. I think a gel might actually weigh more than the singlet!

Amanuel was 4th last year and just missed the podium... but we had to take our eyes off of racing the competition and simplify the mindset.

Keep our eyes on the right targets and know it'd be enough.

Amanuel's effort was tremendous! When the field was "racing" and fartleking, he kept his cool so he could keep cool. He made the adjustments intended and came away with 3rd overall and 2:13:00! To run 5:05/mile in dew points of 70+ is remarkable, and we are so proud of this effort.

To me, of the many marathons Amanuel has run, THIS is one where I feel may have been his best race. It wasn't his PR, but my gosh, it was well run!

#mckirdytrained #marathon #faith #adjustments #coaching