Ep. 58 - Chattanooga 70.3 Recap with Jess Turanec and Allison Jacob

Jess Cullen sits down with fellow LP Endurance Pro teammates Jess Turanec and Allison Jacob to run through their races and experiences at Chattanooga 70.3 in the Ironman Pro Series.

Episode Notes

• Transitioning from age group to pro is a big adjustment with many differences
• Swim starts are more chaotic, bike courses less crowded, run is about chasing down competitors
• Mindset is key - viewing races as learning experiences and staying positive through challenges
• Consistent training at prescribed paces and avoiding heroic efforts enables longevity in the sport

• Jess T felt very nervous, especially at pro meeting surrounded by triathlon stars
• Allison felt calmer than before her first pro race, used mantras/focus words
• Jess C had a hectic lead-up with work travel and moving, focused on executing race plan

• Open water swimming is challenging compared to the pool, takes time to translate
• Jess T and Allison exited water alone, Jess C had a panic moment early on
• Downriver current was strong, buoys came quickly, some physical contact between athletes

• Allison rode on feel vs power, focused on steady effort and cadence, course felt empty
• Jess T's seat was too low causing hip pain, rode mostly solo enjoying the course
• Jess C had favorite ride, pushed hard and rode with other pros which was motivating

• Allison aimed to ease into pace on hilly course, counted steps to maintain cadence
• Jess T developed a side stitch and had to walk/slow down, but enjoyed cheering others
• Jess C went into triage mode due to heart arrhythmia, ran easy but still had fun

• Pro races have more perks but are "pure" racing without advantages like drafting
• Dynamics are different - always chasing vs being chased, truly racing yourself
• Learning curve is steep but provides motivation to keep improving each race

• All three racing Ironman 70.3 Mont-Tremblant next
• Allison traveling to Europe for work, will take a short training break
• Jess T connecting with another pro female in Ottawa to train together