Well another year and another Australian Ironman has been run and won. Unfortunately it was not me that took the win, but I can still happily report that I did have a very solid race and was able to secure second place yet again. This was my eigth time lining up at the Australian Ironman and my fourth time coming home in second place.

I had spent five weeks training for this year's race in Thailand with my training squad- Team TBB (the bike boutique). I was very happy with the way my preparation had been going and could see improvements in all three disciplines. I was really excited to see how these improvements transferred to racing.

I arrived in Port Macquarie on the wednesday afternoon. Justin and I got up at the crack of dawn to make the eight hour drive down to the lovely seaside town of Port. I really enjoy the week leading into the race . I remember in the old days (yes I have been around for a while), when I really did not enjoy race week. I was always so nervous and unsure of race day and what it would hold. These days, being a little older and wiser, I really embrace race week as it is all part of the journey. And that is how I see Ironman these days- not just as race day but the entire journey along the way culminating with the actual race. I love catching up with friends and sponsors and international competitors. It is just a really wonderful experience, and it helps keep me cool and calm for race day.

I spent a good chunk of time this year at Gordon Street Cyclery. Firstly because they were taking extra special care of my brand new BMC Pro Machine, secondly, because they served the best coffee and banana bread in town and thirdly, it was the coolest place to catch up with friends and sponsors. I also had fun at the expo visiting and chatting with my wondeful sponsors Jaggad, Powerbar, Asics, Shane and the Tri Travel Team and the guys and gals from IMG. Before I knew it my alarm clock was going off at 4am, and I was up and out of bed preparing for the race.

I tell you I am such an old hand at this Ironman caper now. I arrived in transition nice and early, got numbered, pumped up my tires and placed my drinks on my bike, all in about ten minutes. I remember when this process used to take me close to an hour. What to do with myself now? I decided to go for a steady warm-up run. I enjoy going for a little trot pre race as it gives me time to think about the day ahead and keep it all in perspective. By the time I headed back to transition it was time to get into my new Orca 3.8 wetsuit and hit the water. Once in the water it is down to business. I did a short warm-up swim and found myself a good spot to start.

I had a really clean start this year and felt great from my first stroke. I was really surprised how effortless the swim felt, and I knew I was having a good swim. On the second lap of the swim I could see the lead paddler for the pro females, and she was right beside me. I exited the water in 50 minutes- my best ever swim time. I always love to get onto the bike. It is definitely still my strength, and I really enjoy riding and riding hard. The Port Mac bike course is very challenging not only because it is technical but it is also very tough with all of the hills. I was able to ride hard from the time I mounted my bike. My new Pro Machine felt great- everything was just perfect (thanks to the guys from Shimano who gave it a once-over at bike check-in on saturday).

There were times when the bike course definiately got a little crowded, and I found it difficult to find clear road. The Technical Officials did a really good job of trying to keep it legal and safe, but I still believe that the professionals need a sperate start to keep the race fair and safe for all.

I dismounted my bike in first place. I had ridden 5hrs10mins- four minutes faster than last year. I had a quick transition, put my Asics 'speedsters' on and off I went. I was really happy with my split through the halfway mark- 1hr35mins. I was right on the target time my coach had given me. Now for the second 21.1kms!!

I still had the lead at the halfway mark of the marathon, but by 25kms Bek had caught me and had taken the lead. I must admit this was a little demoralising for me as I knew I was running well. Bek was simply running better. I just had to think about myself and control my run. My coach had given me a target time of 3hrs 15, and I needed to concentrate on sticking to the race plan. Between 30-36kms I did 'lose the plot' so to speak and slowed down considerably, but it is amazing once you make that turn for home how you are able to find that last burst of energy. Thanks to the amazing spectators out there who were just giving me the most unbelievable support. I was able to pick my running speed back up and get back on track.

There really is nothing better than the finish chute of an Ironman- it is truely an amazing experience and even though this was my 23rd time through a finish chute of an Ironman, I still enjoyed it just as much as if it was my first. I finished in second place with a time of 9hrs20mins- ten minutes faster than last year. Overall the 'journey' was a positive one, and it is looking good for Hawaii this year. The goal for this race was to improve all three disciplines - I succeeded in doing this.

I had such a wonderful time catching up with family, friends and sponosrs during race week. I want to thank everyone for their continued support. For those who were in Port Macquarie your support and encouragement leading into the race and on race day was simply amazing and invaluable.

Next up- I am heading back to Thailand and Team TBB. I will stay here and train for four weeks before heading over to Germany. My next big race is Quelle Challenge Roth- one of my favourites on the 24th June. I promise to keep you all updated on my preparations for this race.

Belinda x