I am now confident a combination of me swallowing too much salt water and the big swell was the reason for my sickness during the race. Having spoken with a number of experienced athletes it seems that it is something that is not unheard of. The sickness occurred on the second lap of two during the 1500m swim. It took me completely by surprise as I was actually feeling good and focusing on making my way through the field. Out of nowhere my whole body went to jelly and I started to shake, felling nausea and couldn’t see anything. Having lost around 35 places during the second lap it was apparent something was not right. A disorientated swim exit left me out of contention on the bike, although trying hard to bridge a gap to the group ahead of me it was apparent my efforts were never going to be rewarded. This is when I decided to count my losses and withdraw focusing on gaining full health and becoming ready for Ishigaki.
I have now arrived safely in Ishigaki, Japan after a relatively long travel. This coming weekend I will race the ITU World Cup which is the final race of three in this current travel phase. I am looking forward to being on the start line on Sunday and determined to demonstrate the form I showed in Mooloolaba World Cup. The unfortunate events on Sunday has not interrupted my Olympic qualification plan in any way, yes ideally it would have been nice to gain additional points but as it is so early in the season it is not the end of the world. Olympic 2012 selection is still very much on target.
Currently I am in good spirits and confident in my current shape. I have had a few minor problems with my belly since the race but in general I am in good health. Monday I ran along the waterfront by the Opera House in Sydney, a hard interval run with coach. Seeing that coach was unable to follow me is always a sign of good legs. A semi hard swim at the open water pool in Botanic Garden also followed on the same day. So all in all I am fit, healthy and anxious to race.
Thanks again for all your nice words and support. I will keep you posted as the week goes on.
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