I never really knew how much I relied on the data from my Garmin 310XT. However, I found out very quickly on Sunday during Ironman Lake Placid. Prior to the event, I adjusted my speed/pace settings to reflect my race goals and made sure the fields were set to display the data I wanted to see.
Before I entered the water on race morning, I turned on the 310XT and started the Auto Multisport mode. Within 5 minutes of the mass swim start of 3,000 athletes, I got kicked in the wrist and my Garmin plummeted to the bottom of Mirror Lake. Other than being upset about losing an expensive piece of equipment, I was not affected by the missing device during the reminder of the swim because I wouldn’t typically look at any data during the swim.
However, it was on the bike and run that I felt lost without the constant feedback from the unit. I had no clue of my speed, pace, or heart rate. The best I could do was to ask other athletes or spectators for the time of day and do a quick calculation based on the 7:00 am start time. For distance I had to rely on the course markings. I never realized how much I relied on the distance data until now. For example, the last distance marker before the finish of the bike was at 100 miles. Not knowing how close I was to the finish, during one of the most challenging sections of the bike course, made a huge impact on me psychologically.
Not having heart rate data was also a major issue, especially on a course with so many hills. It would have been helpful to be more aware of my Rate of Perceived Exertion (RPE) and how it relates to my heart rate numbers.
I had some other problems during the race that led to my less than impressive finish. However, I think not having any of the data and feedback that I am accustomed to played a big role. As I do with every race, I will learn from my mistakes and misfortunes and use this knowledge to help myself and others improve future performances.
