manatee orgy and other various topics

I hope to have some footage of the amazing scene we were blessed to see today while on the SUP's in the intracoastal. We witnessed at least 8 manatee (endangered, I think) in a mating pod along the sea wall not too far from home. The day started out on the Gulf. We had the day off from training (thanks, taper) so ventured out to the Gulf as there was a tropical storm brewing so the waves were starting to come up. Since the wind was offshore, we thought we might be able to paddle and catch a few waves back in to the shore. It was way worse when we paddled out that it looked from the beach. If I wasn't two weeks out from my Ironman race, I would have been more daring, maybe, but not today. The winds were blowing but offshore so the water was pretty glassy but decent swells. We bagged this due to fear of injury and went home. Got home, and noticed the tide was super high so decided to launch off the sea wall across the street. Best decision of the year. Got out to the flats and saw huge pod of manatee making a big stir along the sea wall. They were slapping water and moving around, even swimming under our boards! It was a truly magical experience and something we hung around a while to watch. Luckily, friends who live close by noticed us out there on the water just hanging around and brought out the cameras, I'm hoping to get footage. It was truly a highlight.
The week of training last week was ok. Super hot and humid so I think we have that covered. We had a "race rehearsal" ride/brick yesterday in the hills and I do not feel recovered on the bike at all, mostly going up hill! Hopefully, that will improve during our taper. I do, however, feel super strong running. I can run on extremely tired legs and keep 7:30 pace which is encouraging. I think IM Canada is more a runner's race (as long as you can ride decent) so I'm feeling good about my run fitness now. I hope my bike legs come around during the taper or it will be a long day! Getting excited to leave for Penticton now and making packing lists. One thing for sure, if I don't do well, it's not because I'm not fit! The Dane hurt everyone on the ride yesterday and is rediculously fit!
Cheers to the manatee!


This is LM and the Dane SUP'ing on the glassy Gulf!

Driving to SUP in the Gulf (not today)