Hi , As an active and very competitive Triathlete [ age 62], I am about to under go a B.H.R. operation . Is there any one out there who is a serious Age Group triathlete , that has had the B.H.R. procedure done and still races strongly on it . Also how log ago did you have the Op. and what effects on you has it had . What sort of Run training do you currently do . I only compete at Standard Olympic and Sprint Distance races. :) Thanks.
Hi mate there's plenty of triathletes on here so I'm sure someone will chime in. Who's doing your op mate?
Hi Mate ,
Am a good old KIWI , from down under, are are looking at a BHR Specialist from Auckland , NZ.
The over the top obvious Tri/resurfacing example is Cory Foulk...
http://www.slowtwitch.com/Interview/Cory_Foulk_s_wild_rides__1990.html
I dont think Tinley races any more, but he's very active post resurfacing...
http://www.surfacehippy.info/scotttinley07.php
Get a good surgeon, be patient with recovery and then push... your hip will not be the limiting factor. :)
-Bernie
Hi Bernie ,
Thanks for the update . I will follow thru on those links. :) Thanks. 8)
One thing I'll add to the first link... I think Foulk was a little crazy and lucky with what he did so fast and getting away with it. I think if you can mentally set aside the first year for recovery and getting stronger, that's a good approach. It doesn't have to be a step back at all. Use it to improve core, spin, swim, etc.
Sounds good to have a break off Tri for a year, just getting my mind set around it.Cheers.
Have read the Foulks blog !!!. Man , what an inspiration, seems unbelievable but shows what can be achieved. And for me , just wanting to do only Standard and Sprint Distances, I should make it in a breeze. Here's hoping all goes well in July this year- LBHR. :) Hopeful Kiwi.
Good luck to you. It seems that the biggest issue derailing a lot of recoveries is scar tissue buildup. There are a few ways to deal with this. Personally I started with Active Release Technique (ART) 6 weeks after my surgery. You don't want to let the scar tissue from surgery build up because of the pain and Range of Motion issues.
Good luck!
Yes, I agree with you about the recovery and scar tissue. Am lucky that I have a top man doing my re-hab, and therapy work . Am confident that we will not have a problem with scar tissue caused by in correct/ lack of re-hab work. Thanks . Kiwi Boyo. :) :D
I am a fellow 60 year old Kiwi triathlete chasing Shoraztri around the race tracks. I had a BHR 6 weeks ago done by Hugh Blackley (same surgeon) who has done many more than any other NZ surgeon (over 600). We have been in regular contact,
Absolutely delighted with the progress and results. Hugh's approach with walking and cycling is that if there is no pain, no problem. Crutches are only needed for balance, not support. I was off crutches in 10 days, but went back on to one for a few days when a nerve came back to life and gave some sharp pain.
I am now comfortably walking 5km and am getting some hills into the mix. I can now stride out when walking and am up to about 6km per hour when I do. I have not run for 18 months and am still undecided about getting back into it - I fear the rest of the body will complain (4 knee arthroscopies!), but Hugh says no problem to start when I am ready if I want to.
I was on a wind trainer after 3 weeks and on the road in 5 weeks. Spinning was fine from the start and I am gradually increasing the amount of resistance and downward pressure I can apply.
A dodgy shoulder and dodgier weather have limited swimming, but no problems with the hip there.
Told to avoid impact sport or activities for 6 months. Exercises and regular activities mean I probably don't need PT - but I will see how the muscles fully recover. [That should start some debate!!]
A couple of things I plan to follow up on. My gait and cycling stroke have changed slightly, so I will visit a podiatrist and bike fit specialist to ensure I get any necessary adjustments sorted (I used to run in orthotics) before I get too serious again.
Happy to share further details if you wish.
Saw Shoraztri Tuesday - op was just in time but went well and he is on the recovery trail
Hi Kiwi hippie,
Mate , thats an Awesum blog on what happened , your progress, observations and results from such.
Im sure it gives me so much more confidence in what can be achieved , post Op. So long as one sticks to the protocol of the Surgeon , then we all will be "rocing along at a great rate of knots " , which was un-achievable prior to BHR surgery.
I have a separate write up on my BHR operation within the website[ shoraztri].
Cheers to 1 and all.
Kiwi Boy from Down Under.
Hi all,
On Monday 7th July 2014 , I had a Left Hip, BIRMINGHAM HIP RESURFACING OPERATION done by Dr Hugh Blackley, here in New Zealand at Southern Cross Hospital, on the North Shore.
I cannot THANK Dr Blackley enough for his skill and precision in doing this op. , for I was a borderline case , due to my 62yrs of age + the actual bone / joint condition. I have been a super active Triathlete since 1997. I consistently race at the "top end " of my Age Group, and on the World scene as well. In hindsight , I should have had this procedure a few years ago.
Dr. Blackley was great at the first appointment when we decided to get a BHR, and gave me all the options and choices that may or may not happen , once you are on the "table ". My Op. was approx 2hrs and recovery approx the same , so in just under 4hrs I was awake and back in my own room. Naturally one is sore , in pain and discomfort , but with time and a few days , all of these hugely subside. Its strongly advisable that you have all medications, even if you are non pill-popper.
Next day after the Op, I was doing simple leg exercises and a few steps on crutches. Because I'm a Full On person , Dr. Blackley has me on a very cautious recovery programme [otherwise I will fly off and do heaps !!!] .
Its now Day 7 ,and alot of the pain has subsided, and been replaced by more of a " discomfort" type of pain. I do very little walking, only minimal exercises , 2 crutches for everything , and generally lie around and get better. I feel like a big pitbull on a chain , just itching to have a go , but that's a top sensation , for PATIENCE IS THE KEY. As each week progresses, I will slowly up the tempo, according to Dr. Blackley.
I fully intend to go back to Top Level Triathlon competition[ Olympic and Sprint distances] once my re- hab is completed fully , X rays are all good and my Surgeon is a happy chappie. :)
In reading posts from other athletes , the common FAULT is returning to soon to Full exercise and sport. This is why I am choosing to LISTEN TO THE SURGEON , and follow accordingly. Its a hellofalot of money to flush down the toilet , by not adhering to the rules. Also most other Hippies say get a good surgeon . With Dr. Blackley , he certainly is in this ELITE category. I must also mention the top care and professional attention that all of the Staff showed at Southern Cross North Shore Hospital. Great meals , great service, great attention to details. ;D
As time and the weeks slip by , I will update my progress etc. Thanks to all other Hippies out there for their posts and experiences. It makes a massive difference. Live your Dreams.
Cheers , Kiwi Boyo from Down Under. ;) :) ;D
Well done - good to read of your experience with Hugh Blackley.
Glad you're doing well.
You're wise to reign in your enthusiasm to do too much.
Good luck with your recovery.
Thanks for ya reply. Nice to hear back from others. Maybe you are a Tri boy , or runner. :D Cheers.
You've got a good attitude and approach. The time for triathlons will come, now is the time to recover well.
Congrats!
Thanks heaps , the HARDEST PART IS THE RECOVERY. Like trying to be a "poodle" instead of the naturally nice PitBull. The TV remote is getting a hammering!! :D ;D CHEERS.
It's a long road, but things going well in a few months you'll feel blessed ... Steady work will win you the race.
Thanks heaps for that top advice on "waiting " to re start my Tri career. Still hard , but plenty of "fish " to fry in later years!!. ;D ;)
Hi Sho,
I've raced half Ironman after surgery and qualified and raced in Las Vegas for the World Championships. Goal is to get back to Hawaii WC...Not been happy with my hip comfort when trying to increase speed/distance in training this year. Going to do a stand alone NYC Marathon this fall in hope...doing all kinds of cross sport training...DOING an IM after a BHR is not a huge tackle...obtaining the same pre-surgery speed is my goal...
Wish you the best...
David
Hi David,
Thanks for ya input and what you are hoping to achieve and also for what you have done Post Op. race wise. Is huge step in doing those distances after BHR , so my confidence is bouyed by what you have done. :). How soon , time wise did you start actual running , and actual training for your events. ??. I realise that Swim and Bike disciplines can start way earlier than the Run .
Cheers , Kiwi Down Under.
Hi All,
I am now 4 weeks POST OP. LHBHR. 7/7/2014. Its great to reach this point in time and to be "in a good shape of mind and body". Big THANKS go to my Surgeon , Hugh Blackley here in NZ., for his Post Op. support and re-hab programme. As well his PA , Nikki is always there to answer the many questions from time to time . Its great being able to pick up the phone and ring here , on any matter, both Pre Op and Post Op.. [ Am a 5hr drive, 400km away ].Being a bit of a "borderline "case , due to my shocking buggered hip , age 62yrs,and worn area, :-[ for this procedure , he has deliberately slowed down my progress and exercise programme. This is now paying big dividends , for I'm sure if I had my way , I would have done more , as seems the case with alot of Athletic Hippies . Its the PATIENCE that is the key!! :)
I am now able to do more walking without a crutch , but still use it a fair bit. Have started into Aqua Jogging in the Pool , with Swimming for 40:00 ++ to follow . I use a Pull Buoy for alot of the time . My Bike time is spent on an old CATEYE Windtrainer , so ride that at 20:00-30:00 at a session , easy gearing and just simple spinning. Oddly enough , I find driving to hard/restrictive , so are not at that stage yet.
As each new week ticks by , my confidence is growing and " pain " levels are significantly lowered. Presently on morning "pain" med, and some nights as well. I am getting weekly Soft Tissue Massage work done on the affected area. This is a must and although it "fires "you off , its all good.
I am due for my 6 week check-up and X Rays with Dr. Blackley in 2 weeks , and are eagerly awaiting to see how I have " scrubbed up ". I can then plan on more SENSIBLE , CONTROLLED exercises based around my Swim , Bike , Walk and Aqua Jog disciplines. Listening to my body , not over-doing things and the brilliant support of my "Head Nurse " - the wife , :-* has allowed me to be in this happy position. Perhaps I'm converted from that Pitbull to a Poodle !!.
Cheers to You All , Keep those DREAMS ALIVE !! ;D ;)
Kiwi Boy from Down Under.
Aqua jogging is good. I did a lot of that. Dr. Su allowed me to start running on grass at 4 months. I graduated to the roads at 6 months and ran my first 5K 7 months post-op. Listen to your surgeon in terms of when you are cleared to start running.
Here is a great resurfacing to 5K program: http://surfacehippy.info/hiptalk/running-ironman-marathoner/resurfacing-to-5k-program/
Hi Arrojo,
AWESUM REPLY THERE MATE . I ABOUT TO HAVE X RAYS AND CONSULTATION , 6 WEEK OP. POINT , SO YOUR POST HAS ME "FIZZING ". WILL UPDATE IN A FEW DAYS WHEN BACK HOME AND RESULTS , ASPIRATIONS DESPARATIONS ETC ARE KNOWN , FOR THE FUTURE !!!.
Cheers , Kiwi Boy Down Under.
Hi All ,
Its now 7 weeks POST OP, LHBHR, 7 /7 /14. I went back to my brilliant Surgeon/Specialist, Dr. Hugh Blackley, for my 6 week check up and further X rays last Friday , 15 August 2014. Resulting from this was perfect news that my Re hab had gone fantastically !!!! and that my ROM had improved quite well. I must mention here that without the "better half " getting stuck into me , putting the handbrake on what I thought I could do , then I'm sure the X ray results and other matters would have given a dark picture.
Exercise wise I am only riding the faithful Cateye Indoor Trainer 45-60:00 , nice easy spinning. Walking is up to 40-45:00 and a very mild easy relaxed pace , about 13:00mins pkm. Swim pool work is about 45-60:00 also , but alot of pull buoy and drills being done. Am also Aqua Jogging some days at 30-40:00.
I discussed the option of when to jog a little, before starting to RUN . We decided that December was a good time to test out the legs , and to very carefully monitor PAIN/DISCOMFORT. All in all , pain/ discomfort levels are very very low , and can now get dressed better, drive easier and generally move about "free as ".
The support and help from everyone has really been the key to get me to this position . CERTAINLY PATIENCE , A TOP SPECIALIST, HOSPITAL CARE AND THE BEST OF RE HAB PERSONAL MAKE FOR A SUCCESSFULP BHR OPERATION AND RECOVERY TO A NEW BETTER LIFE.
I will slowly increase my activity time and build cautiously as the new weeks tick by. Its certainly a buzz to be back!! :D :D Cheers , Kiwi Boy Down under,.
Sounds like you're doing everything right. It can still be a roller coaster ride but like Sinatra said: "The Best Is Yet To Come".
Thanks for the support. Hope the roller coaster ride flatens out , to be just a "merry go round " of good luck. Cheers.
Hi All,
Its now that "magic" 13 Week, 3 month Post Operation of my LHBHR, 7 JULY 2014, and generally speaking all is "good to go". On a pain level - really discomfort I feel- its 1/10 so ultra minor. I still feel it in the top of the groin area when I bend over to put on walking shoes , work boots etc. Apart from that I am progressing well with my Massage work . Am very lucky here to have the AWESUM services of Roger Gooch at BodySmart here in my hometown New Plymouth, New Zealand . He is a SPECIALIST SOFT TISSUE EXPERT , and I have had weekly sessions with him , since week 2 of the Operation . He also gave me a simple, effective STRETCHING Programme , with has helped . My ROM has greatly improved , my Gluts and Abs actually now" fire up " , so its a positive feeling that I have now got . :)
Exercise wise , its fantastic to "train " without the pressure of the clock or prep. for the up coming Tri Season . I am Swimming well , INDOOR BIKING , and Walking with enthusiasm and control.Generally Swim 3 times a week at about 2:7km each session, Indoor Cycling 3 times as well , say 40km a session and steady Walking, 3 sessions, say 60.00mins each, at approx 10:20pkm. Because its all at the low key/heartrate effort , nothing untoward is causing pain or inflammation.
I am going to take the sensible , conservative approach and forgo our upcoming National Tri Series , 2014-2015-[Dec to April], as I am wanting to have the most optimal chance of the best recovery and rehab. Will now doubt go a bit "troppo" , looney , crazy as Dec approaches , but PATIENCE is the key . Hoping to go into hibernation !! somewhere so as to avoid a sneaky attempt at a race .
I am still very cautious about road riding , so will stay away from them for another 2 months - no rush to have a possible crash !!. My Surgeon has actually allowed me to start running 6 months Post Op. ,[Mid January 2015] but I really don't see the point, even though I hold National Tri Titles, so will take a back seat in top level Tri competition. I close off now , and are so GREATFULL, and THANKFUL for all the input and advice/help from you fellow Hippies. Big Thanks to you - Pat- a sterling job. :D
Hi All fellow Hippies,
I am now at my 6 month Post Op. date [ was 7/7/14], and progress is slow , steady and really good. Am still taking everything with caution , and had my 1st Jog/Trot/Run yesterday. Was a 07.00 minute effort ,per km, on grass and in my HOKA Shoes. It felt great , fantastic and seemed to be "easy as ". No pain or soreness at all. ;D :Previously was walking heaps and managed a fastest pace of about 08:45 per km. All my cycling was done Indoors , and now have moved to open country and on the road. Again , am taking a very easy pace and working on small rolling type courses. Am using easy gearing on the Tri bike and have no trouble or pain , when out of the saddle work is done. :D ;) ;).
Swim wise , there are no issues here and can do approx 2:5km in my 1 hr. session.
Here in N.Z. we are into our Tri Season , but for me , its a "back seat "approach . I may partake in a small , local 500-20km-2km event in late January this year. I have no plans to compete Nationally or have a crack at World Age Group Champs in Sept. 2015, Chicago. Will look at very slowly building up my kms on the road Bike , and on the Run. Have a heap of confidence that has come from a lot of the dedicated "seasoned " hippies out there- Dannywayoflife . Hernanu, Old Soccer player, Arrojo, David, Whyme etc. with their comments and support. 8) :).
I am sure as the next 6 months tick over that i will get better and better. My ROM has improved immensely !!!! ;D, so this in its own , is a massive boost. On the "pain/discomfort " front , I feel about 95% , and it is only very rarely that I have a problem here. Hopefully I can keep the "steady as she goes approach" keep talking PATIENCE , and all will be good .
It seemed like an eternity to get to 6 months Post Op. , but in reality , time has floated by nicely . Cannot wait until my 12 month -1 year date- of 7 July 2015 arrives !!.
Cheers to 1 and All , Have a Great 2015 .
Kiwi Boy from Down Under. 8) ;)
Hi all,
Just a further update on my progress regarding ROM [ Range of movement].
Prior to surgery I had , at best 5 degrees of PRONE LATERAL ROTATION ,on my knackered left hip .
I NOW HAVE POST OP. 30 Degrees !!!! PRONE LATERAL ROTATION, !!!!! ;D ;) which is absolutely AWESUM . My Soft Tissue Specialist has done a brilliant job on my Rehab and flexation. I still see him about every 10 days for a session.
Also have noticed that I can ride better and corner correctly !! when turning left - able to "hang out " the leg/knee .
Cheers , ;) Kiwi Boy Down Under.
Shoraz, it's great to see that you are doing great. Keep training, keep racing! I'm three years out of bilaterals and I'm loving every swim, bike, and every run.
Hi Woodstock Hippy,
Great news on your re hab and what you are now able to do. Gives me plenty of confidence to return back into Triathlon , without any worries etc. Cannot wait to get back on the race track "full on " but PATIENCE is the clue , so just bide my time , and then I be off the leash.!! ;) ;D 8).
Hi All Fellow Hippies,
I am now a 9 month Post Op.,"apprentice" and all is very good and well.
My pain levels are virtually non existent , and only rarely do I get a bit of inflammation . This only lasts a few hours and comes after a Bike and Run session. Am sure it is mostly due to the Run.
Its just bliss so to speak ,without every day pain etc. I am back into easy running , [started 3 months ago], and continue to Swim and Bike without a restriction or pain . I do find some days , that when on the Aero bars , when riding , I feel abit of pinching at the top of groin/hip area. Soon alleviated by NOT getting into the Aero position , and carry on riding on the H/Bar Drops.
The next 3 months should breeze by and I don't see any problems or complications .
for those contemplating BHR, GET IT DONE!!. :D. You will get a whole new active life back. Thanks to everyone for their input and advice. It sure means alot. ;)
Cheers ,
Kiwi Boy.
Excellent buddy-at 9 months it's still early days so you will go from strength to strength and I'm sure also overcome all niggles. I didn't start running until 11 months (following Mcminn guidance) and was close to full strength around 18 months-so clearly you are doing brilliantly.
Best
Toby
Hi Toby,
Thanks for ya post :). Have boosted my confidence up another notch. Am looking at running "full on " come July this year , as is 12 months Post Op. Perhaps target ? my 1st Tri in early December , as that is the start of our N. Z. tri Season . [1:5km,40km,10km.]
Would be GREAT to get back to somewhere my original Pre Op., Run times , but I guess thats an unknown quantity. ??. PATIENCE is hard but the REWARDS are BETTER. ;) ;D.
Cheers.
Congrats and keep it up!
Hi hernanu,
Thanks , the support and encouragement certainly lifts one. :)
Cheers. :D
Hi all Fellow Hippies,
Finally :) ;D 8) I have arrived at my 1 Year Post Operation ANNIVERSARY. !!! ;D :P . For a time there I thought it wouldnt arrive, and found alot of respect and admiraration for my fellow Hippies who helped me thru it with their advice. ;)
As for the exercises that I have got back into, everything is just great. Being a very compeditive Triathlete [ now approaching 64yrs young], I have slowly built into my Swim, Bike and Run routine. Its now our winter here in New Zealand, so will not be able to "test" out the body until December this year. Currently I am easing into the Swim and Bike , but still holding off a little on the Serious part of running- its more of a fast jog, and at 05:40pkm efforts. Can actually hang in there for about 8km, with no real issues on the Hip. ;D ;) .
Have found that my ROM is just great , with the Operated hip side having nearly as much ROM, as my better left side,. This is very encouraging. I have been very active and regular with my massage Therapist, and this has been a major factor in how I have "scrubbed" up overall. Even after 12 months , I still have work done on the hip ever 10-12 days.
With regard to Swimming, I find a small ache occurs if I do to many Kick sets. For Biking, there are no real issues, I find no real problems here- good spinning, hill and speed work does not affect me. My only wee concern is when I do up my shoes and/or bend over to far. I can still feel a "niggle " in the Hip/Groin area. This soon melts away within a couple of hours or so.
I look back now on all the extreme pain and suffering I endured, prior to my Operation, I say to myself -"Why the hell didnt I get it done earlier". To have virtually a pain free hip now is an incredible feeling, and not to mention the fact that I have my Tri career resurected [and general health and well being] , is testament to anyone thinking about BHR, GET IT DONE. ;) :) . Cheers to One and All.
Kiwi Boyo from Down Under.
Hi Shoraztri!
Well done, I'm following you along the tri path! Got really into my swimming on the recovery road I don't want to waste it. I'm 6 months now but been jogging a bit on the treadmill for a few weeks with no issues apart from a calf twang! That's an age thing. Looking forward to the warmer weather to do some sprint tri's before the 5150s in the New Year. Hip is awesome and I echo your sentiments, don't suffer, get it done!
Hi Kiwi Boyo - great report, congratulations on getting to your anniversary without any ill effects from all the exercise you have been doing!
I still have not tried swimming, I don't much like cold water or indoor pools, but biking and running are going well for me too - just a bit slow, and that is probably more due to age than the BHR. Have run 16km as an experiment but backing off at the moment to an hour as my long run. Maybe all the warnings have started to sink in...
Will look forward to your first race report in December!
Pete
Certainly is great to hear Kiwi Boyo, you have been a model of patience!
I'm ten weeks, going well, too busy to post an update now, will wait until I'm back golfing in Aug.
Hope your training goes well, and you continue to strengthen! Congrats.
Hi all,
Big THANKS to the replies below from MatJersey, petemeads, MPH, . Certainly gives a big boost in the Confidence and mind set. Looking forward to posting in about 4 months time , on progress etc. Still find a little discomfort when in Aero position on the Bike, usually after 30.00 , but doesnt really "hang around".
All the best to everyone out there, and as they all say "its a Marathon- not a Sprint that we are in." Time is certainly on your side.
Cheers,
Kiwi Boy.
Glad to here that you are doing so well. This bilateral hippy is having another great season and I don't even notice these new hips. It might be time for you to drop into a 5k race or even a sprint tri. When does tri season start for you over there?
Hi Woodstock Hippie,
Thanks for the post. Our season in NZ starts late November and goes thru to March 2016. I am targeting 2 Olympic Distance races and about 3-4 Sprint events. Our National Champs are in late January,2016, and mid Feb., for the Sprint Champs. Will also compete in a few local based Tri in my home city of New Plymouth.
How is your Run times ??and overall performances. Must be great to "firing"on both hips. ;D ;) .
Cheers.
Kiwi Boyo.
Hi All,
Just a small update on my progress, now that I am 15 months Post Operation. Am currently into my Tri training and doing all 3 disciplines. The Swim is fine, Biking wise, I find being down in the Aero Bars position somewhat a tad uncomfortable. Can probably do 15:00 on , then need about 10:00 off them. Not alot of speed work on the Bike, more just about getting kms under the belt.
In the Run, am still "off the pace here" in terms of speed. Still hover around the 05:10pkm time-wise, and can do 8km safely without any aggravation or inflammation. Run about 3 times a week max, same as Swim and Bike.
Will be using our upcoming Tri New Zealand 2015/16 season as a "stepping stone" towards the 2016/17 season. All in all, I rapt with how everything is progressing and that fact that I'm pain free!!!!, :) ;) 8) so long as one does not "push to hard :D
Cheers , Kiwi Boy Down under.
Hi KiwiBoy! Great to hear of your continuing progress towards competition, and I can sympathise with the running speed - I seem to have found my current aerobic limit with 3 consecutive 23:45 5k runs a month ago and now getting slower! However, last weekend I did a 5k on Saturday and 10k on Sunday (first 10k race in nearly 5 years) and managed to get the V60 trophy with a time of 50:45. Amazingly, I was still walking OK on the Monday. I think I need to do more longer slow runs, with a view to a half marathon as soon as I can expect to get under 1:50:00.
Cycling has taken a back seat, my old training buddy has been grounded by sciatica just a few weeks after spending a fortune on his new bike so I have just been sneaking out for 15 mile 'time trials' when the weather suits, and have managed to get within a few seconds of last years PB. No aero position for me, though, just not bendy enough. Still not swum since the op, don't much like pool swimming and not had a warm sea opportunity yet!
Keep up with the updates as your season progresses, and good luck! :)
Hi petemeads mate,
Hey great to hear you are "hummin along" on the Run. Nice to see you working still on the Bike as well, and the Swim will fall into place I'm sure. :D . My Half Marathon days are long gone, and as Im wanting to get alot of Tri's in, Im reluctant to do long distance run events.
Enjoy yourself. :D
Kiwi Boy Down Under.
Hi all ,
It's now 17 months post Op., and I'm back !!! ;D on the "horse" and doing OK.
I had my first Tri in 20 months, Olympic Distance and survived well. :) It's been a longer slow road to recovery, but it sure has paid dividends. THANKS PAT !! :)
My race went OK and was happy with the Swim and Bike, but found the Run a "bit off the pace". Approx., at the 05:00pkm pace. This is to be expected, and like all triathletes, expect to fly in the first race, but it doesn't happen like that. Was great to be able to ride in the Aero position for the 40km and not have any issues at all. I will do another Standard Distance Olympic Tri, plus a Sprint Distance as well, for our 2015/2016 Racing year. A couple of local small races here in my hometown to boot as well, and that will see me for this race season.
To my fellow Tri boys/athletes , MPH, petemeads,Woodstock
Hippie, Matt Jersey, and others, your encouragement and support is brilliant and helps to "fire me up". All the Best to you in your recovery and racing. Live the Dream, and Just Do It. 8)
Cheers, Merry Xmas and a Champion 2016, to you All.
Kiwi Boy Down Under.
Hi Kiwi Boy, great to hear that you are back to competing!
I tried unsuccessfully to find your event but did find lots of great stuff about you and your racing career. Interested to see that the paleo route only gave a temporary remission in your hip, I never went overboard with paleo but I did cut right down on grains and start eating meat again (and think I feel better for it).
The last couple of months have not been particularly good for my running and 5k times have dropped back to 26 minutes but I have been focussing on indoor climbing and spend a lot of time aching afterwards from my back and natural hip so running has been a bit limpy and I have not been putting in training miles. Have joined a gym though so hope to get swimming again and static biking, which should help!
I hate the short, dark, days in November/December - NZ is the place to be!
Good luck in your next event
Kiwi Boy - Great to hear your progress and how well you did in your tri! You are an inspiration to others, just as those who have gone before you, were to you.
Good Luck. Hope you do many more tris and competitions.
Happy New Year with that great new hip!
Pat
Hi Pat and petemeads,
Thanks heaps to ya both for the encouragement and on going support. This just keeps one motivated and striving to get "better", racing wise. :D I have a few goals to achieve in 2017 and 2018, so its a nice steady road to get there. I'm in for the "long haul". 8)
Petem, the Paelo changed my life 100% completely. I am "addicted" to it, just like Tri !!! ;D . For me, it works 100%, but like everything in life, some things don't suit others. Its like a shoe size- we are all different in some way. I always needed a BHR, Paelo just delayed it for a while. You can see some of my racing form, PRE -operation, on the ITU website, under Athletes tab.
Running is coming on fine, so maybe I can get closer to 25:00 for the 5km. I will ask Santa about some super-fast shoes for me. :P :D
Merry Xmaz.
Cheers,
Kiwi Boy Down Under.
Great job on that tri, Kiwi boy. Your running will get faster the more you train, trust me on that one. Isn't hip resurfacing awesome?
Despite being on the site for a few weeks and checking the Forum every day I only just noticed the Athletes section, hadn't scrolled down far enough!
Read through this all the way from the beginning and so much of it resonated with where I am now and my path so far. Like you I have competed at World AG level and hope to get back again. I am a little younger though at 48. Will be 3 months post op next week and swimming, indoor cycling and aqua jogging similar distances that you reported at that stage. Current plan is to start treadmill running at 4 months and outdoors at 6 months. Both Surgeon and Physio have said I can race this summer.
Congratulations on your Olympic distance race, that's great news and I hugely look forward to the next installment, keep posting!
Quote from: Arrojo on January 12, 2016, 04:32:12 PM
Great job on that tri, Kiwi boy. Your running will get faster the more you train, trust me on that one. Isn't hip resurfacing awesome?
Hi Arrojo,
Thanks for the huge reply. Has thrown me a good lifeline to get in quality training. Hip re-surfacing is more than Awesum !!!!!. ;D :D ;) :) . Will keep ya posted on my racing.
Cheers,
Kiwi Boy Down Under. 8) :D
Quote from: Tri Hard Alan on January 22, 2016, 05:17:08 AM
Despite being on the site for a few weeks and checking the Forum every day I only just noticed the Athletes section, hadn't scrolled down far enough!
Read through this all the way from the beginning and so much of it resonated with where I am now and my path so far. Like you I have competed at World AG level and hope to get back again. I am a little younger though at 48. Will be 3 months post op next week and swimming, indoor cycling and aqua jogging similar distances that you reported at that stage. Current plan is to start treadmill running at 4 months and outdoors at 6 months. Both Surgeon and Physio have said I can race this summer.
Congratulations on your Olympic distance race, that's great news and I hugely look forward to the next installment, keep posting!
Hi Tri Hard Alan,
Thanks for the posting and support. All I can reiterate, is that TAKE YOUR TIME, YOU ARE IN A "MARATHON" SO TO SPEAK. Sprinting off earlier will cause dilemmas down the track. A few months delay will not hurt at all, quite the opposite. ;)
All the best in the Re-Hab, take it easy and the benefits will pay be dividends.
Cheers, Kiwi Boy Down Under. ;D
Hi all,
I am now a solid 19 months Post Op, July 2014, so its time for the update and antics I have been up to, plus results.
After an extremely careful, dedicated and slower than the norm recovery, I then ventured back onto the Triathlon "race track", in December 2015.
First up was a near Standard Distance race of 1:300-36km-10km. I survived pretty good and managed an overall time of 02:11:37. There was very little pain or inflammation at all. The Swim was tide assisted, with a flat Bike and an undulating Run. Run time 47:52.
In early January I did a short local Triathlon and was amazed at how the hip and body relished it. Didn't over-do it here, and just focused on getting the basics done very well. About 01:30:00 event time.
Then in late January I did a National N.Z. Standard Olympic Distance event. 1:500 - 39:0km - 10:0km. It was a flat, wetsuit Sea Swim,, 4 lap flat Bike and a 2 Lap flat Run. Overall I had a "blinder", and again very little pain at all. Some minor discomfort on the 5hr drive back home. Next day 100% all good. I Biked a P.B. [ 65:00 approx] and the Run was just over 44:00.
Total time was a tad under 02:18:00.
2 weeks later my next event was the N.Z. National Sprint Champs of 750 - 20:km - 5km. This was to be probably my most hardest race in terms of physical and mental application. It was a calm as Lake Swim,[1 lap] hilly type Bike course [out and back] followed by an undulating Run, =2 @ 2:500km]. After a solid Swim, it was then a good, hard, honest "fast slog" on the Bike, and then a "punishing" Run. I say "punishing" meaning the fact that both of us leaders exited the Bike trans and onto the Run together, toes for toe. Still slogging it out at the 1st lap, 2:500km, I managed to then sneak ahead by a few metres and eventually held on to WIN by a mere 09 seconds. Overall time was just under 01:17:00. Run time was 22:05 !!!!. ;D :)
Most satisfying to say the least was my HIP. Absolutely perfect, not a hint of pain or trouble. Also the 4hr drive home was not a worry. Next day, perfect on the Hip.
After my 3 National races, I then decided it was time to "pull stumps" and "park up" . I'm looking for longevity and quality racing from Hip, so think its an extremely wise move to take. It's been a brilliant year for me, race wise, and I owe alot to my "better half"- the wife. :D I have had incredible support from my Swim coach, plus my Run mentor, who is also my Soft Tissue Therapist.
I would like to mention here my Surgeon who performed the Operation. Hugh Blackley gave me great, valuable advice on the re-hab. Its already paid huge dividends. Moral of the story - listen to the experts !!! and heed their advice. ;)
We all heal differently, we all recovery differently, so no "shoe" fits us all. You have to listen to the advice, listen to your body and mostly all believe in yourself.
To my good friends Pat Walter, petemeads, arrojo, Woodstock Hippie, Matt Jersey, Howard Baker, THANKS a Ton everyone. You gave me the motivation to "get out there and do it.!!".
As our Tri season is nearing a close now, I will be taking it super easy and just "ticking" over for awhile. I aim to fire up again in August, in preparation for another bash at the 2016/2017 Tri racing season. I cannot say much more and my activity is purely about Triathlon. Therefore I cannot comment on other sports. One major change in my training is that I now only Run 3 times max a week, being approx 1 @ 4km, 1 @ 7km and perhaps the 3rd at 9-10km. I do very little speed/rep work as well, just maintaining a "fast clip" when running. Oddly enough I progressed out of HOKA shoes, after 10 months. They gave me a poor landing and run technique,after watching accurate video footage.
Cheers to Ya All ;D :D ;) :P
Top Regards,
Kiwi Boy from Down Under. :)
Go Kiwi Boy!
This is brilliant news and these fantastic performances make me feel a bit of a slacker - I have been chipping away trying to run sub-24 mins regularly and you are hitting my PB from 5 years ago!
Must get off my fat arse and make a bit more of an effort...
Keep up the good work!
Pete
PS - as a result of your post I wore my racing shoes for this morning's 5k parkrun and went for it - 23:23, half a minute faster than last week's event on a short course. Brilliant, felt like a runner again. Here's to next week!
Hi petemeads mate,
Hey THANKS for the post. Yes, I tried something different at the National Olympic Tri, that was , changing my shoes. What a MASSIVE difference. Just made me feel light and fast with less ground contact as well, plus the Cadence improved, which all adds up to a faster time.
Today I went for a wee 5km "trot" in my Asics "Neutral" brand shoe. Although they feel a bit of a "gumboot" , sure was more comfortable. Happy to sit on 05:10pkm pace.Trouble is race-day is all about SPEED. ;D . Getting that feel back of being a Runner, add in a whack of Race day Adrenalin, a few other endorphins and times improve so much.
Enjoy.
Cheers,
Kiwi Boy from Down Under. [ Still the Best country in the World!! ] :D ;) :)
Hi Kiwi Boy
Thanks for the update. Sounds like you are doing great. Keep it up and let us know how you are doing this summer.
Good Luck.
Pat
Hi Pat,
Thanks for the kind words and support.
Am "parked now" as our Tri season has finished here.
Next race is early December 2016, so time for a siessta or 5 !!.
Cheers,
Kiwi Boy