Countdown to Kona

Leading up to race day in Kona, Macca will answer questions daily about his preparation, thoughts and strategy for the Ford Ironman World Championship. Today, we get a general mindset and how Macca is preparing for the defense of his crown:

How are you feeling?
 
I am feeling really good at the moment. I know the preparation has been done now and it just about getting my mind ready and body fresh for the challenge ahead. This event in Hawaii is absolutely brutal both physically and mentally. Racing in 90 degree temperatures and 100 percent humidity for 8 hours takes a lot from you physiologically and mentally. This is what the preparation has been about. I feel in great spirits and looking forward to the race again.


What are you doing to prepare in the last week before the race?  Workout wise?  Rest wise?  Nutrition wise?
 
The last week before the race is all about rest and focus. The imporatnce of getting your mind ready for an event like this is crucial. I spend a lot of time alone and quiet with my thoughts and trying to visualise the day. The unknowns in this race make it so difficult. The key to success here is how your body will respond on the day to the brutality of the conditions. It is as raw as it comes. In the last week it is about getting your body fresh enough and recovered enough to be ready for this onslaught and your mind in the right place that will allow it to continue to push when your body says it has had enough. In real terms it is like preparing for an horrific mental and physical day that you know is coming. Nutrition needs to be clean and refined in these last few days, electrolyte levels are monitored because of the high humidity and hydration is key. The focus of the last week is all about myself really. It is a selfish week.


Tomorrow, check back to see who Macca thinks will be his biggest foes in the triathlon and how his strategy will compare to his victorious 2007 campaign.