tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9207274725758217162024-03-14T09:12:15.682-04:00Susan K. ColtmanTrack & Field - HeptathlonSushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04027264679457263082noreply@blogger.comBlogger46125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-920727472575821716.post-66608314437635781052010-08-23T19:33:00.000-04:002010-08-23T19:33:16.118-04:00A New BeginningI have one question on my mind these days: how do I proceed forward? It was about a year ago now that I accepted the possibility that change could be a good thing and that coming back to Canada and working with a local coach here in Toronto would be what I needed to take that last step into major international competitions. However, here I am standing at the end of a disappointing and frustrating 7 months at UofT and preparing to make a coach and training location switch. Second thoughts creep in, and say that I should not have listened to various people who talked me into leaving my training location in the Netherlands. Unfortunately, that is just the trouble with hindsight 20/20; it feels so easy to say should have, could have, would have ...<br />
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When there is a clear ending, there are two questions that come to mind: do you regret the choice? Would you do it over again? To the first question, the answer is yes. However, to the latter, it is complicated to know for sure what I would or should do. I had a great deal of information to make the choice, but it was not enough. If I knew then what I know now of how the situation really is and not what it is made to look like, I know the answer would be no, and so I am starting over. As I prepare to move forward, I take a moment to think only of the positives. <br />
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Throughout the year I various conversations with my old coach, Bart, about my struggles, and fears and he would remind me that the person who knows Susan Coltman the best is me; I know what I can do and what I need to be able to perform, so it was time to take control for myself. I also had the great support of my friend Aquil Abdullah, and he too would remind me of my inner strength and that I needed to able to stand up for myself and know what I needed. <br />
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A noted American Author once said, "There will come a time when you believe everything is finished. That will be the beginning." This moment marks my new beginning. Wish me luck!<br />
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Your Athlete,<br />
SusanSushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04027264679457263082noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-920727472575821716.post-78480093421328715022010-08-23T19:22:00.003-04:002010-08-23T19:24:25.068-04:00Season RecapHere is a brief recap of what my season, from my perspective, really looked like:<br />
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The buildup to my season, aka the winter training, seemed rather solid, with 2-3 periods that I thought were just adjustment pains, but were really signs of over training. Then the start of the competition season set off on the wrong foot so to speak and resulted in an injury that plagued my whole season. I was set to open my season in Desenzano in May, followed with Kladno in June, and then Nationals in July, all leading to qualification to the Commonwealth Games in October. I knew this was my plan, but I was persuaded to open my season in California in mid-April as a training prep for how to improve my ability to compete. There I was, an athlete with a new coach who I very much wanted to impress, so I said yes when I should have said no.<br />
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Heading into Mt.Sac relays I had been very sick, on antibiotics for a throat infection, and in no position to compete, but the coaches insisted, and I attempted to persevere. Unfortunately, the weakness in my body resulted in pushing my body past its limits and while trying to push myself to be ready in a short period, I had a huge hurdle crash in training, 3 days before the competition. I pushed myself further to compete despite some discomfort in my back, and during the long jump portion of the heptathlon, I hit the board in a compromised position, due to the pain already in my back, and the result was that my back went into complete spasm and I was never in more pain in my career as an athlete; and that includes a long list of injuries!<br />
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I flew home right away and was happy to be in the hands of Dr. Galea in Toronto. The medical side of returning home to Canada to train was a major benefit, and I was about to maximize that to no end this year! What was feared to be a potential career ending disc injury was actually a multifidus muscle tear. With treatment from Galea and supporting treatment from Carm Stillo, amazing Chiropractor, I was back up and training and trying to push myself to be ready for Kladno, which was an active recovery period of 8 weeks. While everyone was doing everything possible to help me be ready to compete, the reality was this injury needed 12 weeks complete recovery. I had recovered the tear and was feeling positive and decided that I was able to compete in Kladno and headed over to Europe. Unfortunately, this competition would resemble Mt.Sac as I got through day one ok, and then came long jump on day two and back spasm, that turned out to be a tear this time lower in the multifidus and also in the gluteus maximus. Suddenly I had an increased injury and only 6 weeks till my last chance to qualify so I once again maximized the support of Galea and Carm and tried to push my body to be ready for the Canadian Track and Field Championships. However, the back would not make it through healthy. <br />
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Here is where my season would end and I would accept that I just did not have enough time between competitions to heal completely. I had pushed my body so hard this year, but I was beyond exhaustion both physically and emotionally. The greatest frustration that I carried all year was that the coaching staff revealed themselves to be my fair weathered friends – when I was healthy and ready to train, they were there to push me; when I was injured and unable to train, it felt like out of sight out of mind. I had chosen for a coach, who was noted to have a tremendous deal of experience, and I was always searching for support and words of wisdom throughout a difficult time, and instead I was on my own completely. Well not completely, I did have a great deal of support from Galea and Carm, without whom I would not have made it through this year – I am grateful to them both beyond words!<br />
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I spoke to Bart at the end of this time, and he felt willing to admit at this point that when I saw him while in Europe he was disappointed in what he saw - it was clear that the coaches had over trained the events, under trained strength, and that I had lost the progress he and I had made in our four years together. <br />
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I am now taking some time off, away from the track to heal both physically and emotionally. I have notified this coach that I will not be returning to UofT, and am in conversation with a new coach to continue my journey – to start fresh and build myself up to a new stronger competitor. I have a renewed hope and spirit and happy to have closed that chapter in my life. Today I am embracing the words of Albert Einstein, “Learn from yesterday, live for today, hope for tomorrow.”<br />
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Your Athlete,<br />
SusanSushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04027264679457263082noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-920727472575821716.post-23802614542785212112010-08-23T16:45:00.001-04:002010-08-23T17:09:25.659-04:00Thank You CAN Fund<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZni4XcD8dk7_2bIh0GJaaPWd4VfOc4jnShSKZbx2OY3i1_Pj3WcCjSAmQ1Pga7hdKAPU-zUj6nMqHW8kd1WS1abxm9VDb0vt8wFGgWihIvr8SrMI0ZVQyNU6G_SwRciSg_oFPSrN5XKY/s1600/CAN+Fund.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZni4XcD8dk7_2bIh0GJaaPWd4VfOc4jnShSKZbx2OY3i1_Pj3WcCjSAmQ1Pga7hdKAPU-zUj6nMqHW8kd1WS1abxm9VDb0vt8wFGgWihIvr8SrMI0ZVQyNU6G_SwRciSg_oFPSrN5XKY/s320/CAN+Fund.jpg" /></a></div><br />
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I wanted to take this opportunity to let you know about an organization that I endorse called the Canadian Athletes Now Fund. CAN Fund is a not-for-profit organization devoted solely to raising funds and awareness for Canada's athletes. Since 2003, CAN Fund has raised more than 11 million dollars and helped hundreds of Canadian athletes in pursuit of their dream to represent Canada. <br />
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I recently became a recipient of the CAN Fund and wanted to share with you the impact that this funding will have on helping me to achieve my goal of competing for Canada in 2012. As I continue to train and compete, I now have some added security with this contribution from the CAN Fund. With CAN Fund I am also able to be more self sufficient as an athlete and therefore reduce the financial stress on my family. I am grateful to CAN Fund for showing their support of my talents as I build into 2012!<br />
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The London Games are 2 years away but it is now when your support counts the most and has the greatest impact on our journey. Now is when we give everything we have in pursuit of our dreams to represent Canada on the world stage. I am 1 of 545 athlete applicants who recently applied for financial assistance to the CAN Fund. As a recent recipient, I know first hand the importance of the CAN Fund and the positive impact that this financial support has on our ability to pursue our goals and to compete knowing that nothing was holding us back. It allows us to focus more on performance and being the best that we can be and less on finances. Canadian athletes face a funding shortfall and CAN Fund helps to provide an answer by putting the funding directly into the hands of the athletes. <br />
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The unique thing about donating to the CAN Fund is that with every donation you find out the name of the athlete you have impacted.<br />
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<i>“Many times when I have made a donation to a charitable organization I often wonder whether my contribution has really helped to make a difference, I am delighted to say that this is not the case with Canadian Athletes Now Fund. When I first became a monthly donor one of the athletes who was identified as receiving funds was a swimmer from Alberta names Annamay Pierse - yes the very same Annamay Pierse who last week set a World Record and won a Silver medal at the World Aquatic Championships in Rome. In her post race interview with Scott Russell of the CBC, Annamay made it a point to thank Jane Roos and the Canadian Athletes Now Fund for helping provide the support our amateur athletes need. While she did not thank me personally - I did feel some sense of gratitude knowing that my money had helped in Annamay's achievement of excellence. Thank you Canadian Athletes Now Fund and keep up the good work!” ~ Ian Hand, CAN Fund Monthly Donor</i><br />
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If you are considering donating to a charity, I strongly encourage you to consider CAN Fund. The CAN Fund has created a vehicle that connects Canadians from coast to coast with Canadian athletes and provides a way for everyone to get involved and contribute to our excellence. Whether you become a CAN Fund monthly donor, donate to the CAN Fund through the United Way, have your company adopt a Canadian Athlete, engage in a corporate matching program, book an athlete to speak at your company etc…your contribution WILL make a significant difference! To find out how you can become a part of our journey and impact the dreams of other Canadian athletes like myself visit <a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.CanadianAthletesNow.ca">www.CanadianAthletesNow.ca</a><br />
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Thank you for considering the CAN Fund and believing in Canadian athletes!<br />
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Your Athlete,<br />
SusanSushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04027264679457263082noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-920727472575821716.post-19264167520889730132010-03-14T17:33:00.003-04:002010-03-14T22:17:13.277-04:00Deliberate TrainingHello Everyone,<br /><br />Training is going well. The most significant training difference has been the step up in running. Looking over the training schedule you'll notice that everyday has a running workout and even twice on Mondays.<br /><br />The greatest improvement to my running is two-fold: one, I've learned to relax my upper body (shoulders and up) and allow my lower body to move more smoothly with strong strides. Two, my confidence is growing.<br /><br />Doing this results in good times and shows me what I am capable of doing so I can repeat and build on during future running sessions and later in competition.<br /><br />One of the challenges for me in training has been the limited rest between running sets. I feel like some times I am running through the line, take a few steps to slow down, taking a few long breaths, and walking back to the start line to repeat! However, this little rest allows me to stop over thinking things and just run. Andy always says, "just feel it."<br /><br />Andy will also say, after such difficult sessions, to "file that result away." For instance, when I am running 6x200m and after the first two I want to give up and quit because it hurts and I can feel the lactic acid building in my legs and my irrational fears kick in that suggest that I am no capable of finishing. Thankfully Andy is always there when I run my workouts and just pushes me to keep going. He offers encouragement and will not let me give up on myself.<br /><br />Right now it's about getting the work done: pace is less important but still something we aim for in training. When I start a workout Andy and I will discuss what is possible that day for times/pace and then one of two things will happen: I'll hit that time/pace or not. It's that simple. I am learning to think this way as a means to take the pressure off myself and <span style="font-style: italic;">just feel it</span>.<br /><br />The hard work for me is about building trust in myself and getting used to being uncomfortable when I run, to be ready to really attack and push myself in the 200m and 800m to know that I have truly given everything I have to give! In track talk, leave it out there on the track!<br /><br />Your Athlete,<br />SusanSushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04027264679457263082noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-920727472575821716.post-82807034197851633752010-02-06T18:34:00.002-05:002010-02-06T19:10:04.891-05:00Heptathlon TrainingHello,<br /><br />Here is what my new training schedule looks like now, under Andy's coaching. Everyday I am running and I am really learning to move so smoothly and with great confidence! We have worked a great deal on letting the tension go from my upper body and moving effortlessly from the shoulders, as I work hard off the ground and push with every step. Thanks to all the running, I have ample practice at this and it is really starting to pay out and I am feeling more and more confident to push myself in the running and really just allow my body to move, and it is feeling amazing; I have moments where I truly feel fast and excited at my potential for speed!<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Monday</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">AM</span><br />Speed<br />Core<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">PM</span><br />Throws<br />High Jump<br />Speed Endurance<br />Weights<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Tuesday</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">AM</span><br />Long Jump<br />Box jumping<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">PM</span><br />Throws<br />Core<br />Run<br />A's (skipping high knees 5x30seconds)<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Wednesday</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">AM</span><br />Hurdle Speed<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">PM</span><br />Throws<br />High Jump<br />Weights<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Thursday</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">AM</span><br />Long Jump<br />Hop and Bound jumping<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">PM</span><br />Throws<br />Core<br />Run<br />A's<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Friday</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">AM</span><br />Hurdle Endurance<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">PM</span><br />Gymnastics<br />Weights<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Saturday</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">AM</span><br />Throws<br />Run<br />A's<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">PM</span><br />Rest<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Sunday</span><br />Rest day<br /><br />Outside of training, my days are still the same. Wake up, eat, go to training, come home, eat, sleep/nap, eat, go back to training, protein shake post training, come home, eat, eat, sleep! This is the life of an athlete!<br /><br />Your Athlete,<br />SusanSushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04027264679457263082noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-920727472575821716.post-46269605564625585492010-01-19T19:52:00.002-05:002010-01-19T20:13:12.237-05:00First post of the new year!Hello Hello.<br /><br />At last I shall resume writing! Sorry for the silence, but it's been a busy time adjusting to all the changes these past couple of weeks. I hope the new year is off to a great start for you all!<br /><br />I am settling into the new training. I feel a little as if I had just been tossed into it all, meaning very little in the way of gradual introduction - I started right into a training schedule of 11 sessions in the midst of a "hard" training week! This week we are on "easy" for recovery and I am catching my breath!<br /><br />The major adjustment in training to date has been that the coaches are quick to pick up on my poor habits like spending too much time prior to an attempt or run just thinking it over and are getting me into the habit of just going on feeling and no pause. Sounds simple, but putting it into action some days is not so simple! I am working on it!<br /><br />Working now with four different coaches and new physio/massage therapist and a new sport psychologist has been exhausting on my body and emotions. Although, in general, I feel it has been a rather smooth transition into training. I have been very open to new opinions and listening to new advices. I know coming in here what does and does not work for me, but at the moment I go with a little faith as we all become familiar and build trust.<br /><br />The key phrase to come into play with training is "effortless effort," referring to just relaxing and training with purpose. There is a great deal of knowledge here, so for now I am soaking it up and finding what works for me.<br /><br />Your Athlete,<br />SusanSushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04027264679457263082noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-920727472575821716.post-3483114074222226792009-12-20T15:27:00.011-05:002009-12-20T16:05:55.155-05:00Moving to Toronto<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOkQIibgBAQNkZjPHXznDxYaKUUiIUUlETfynZzOxeoXfz2zsF0XVrn5ytI0Wt-CPBZs7PN5MBsXigqyo2PFQltUUfbj6AyK7k75r3OStLZiS50_Y2kor6DmrOVDXpv81LDmaKweTj-lU/s1600-h/100px-U_of_T_varsity_blues.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 75px; height: 100px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOkQIibgBAQNkZjPHXznDxYaKUUiIUUlETfynZzOxeoXfz2zsF0XVrn5ytI0Wt-CPBZs7PN5MBsXigqyo2PFQltUUfbj6AyK7k75r3OStLZiS50_Y2kor6DmrOVDXpv81LDmaKweTj-lU/s200/100px-U_of_T_varsity_blues.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5417420077467977794" border="0" /></a><br />ORONTO BOUND! Yes, the decision has been made and I have been busy the past couple of weeks discussing my choice with Bart and those who will be my new coaching staff: Andy Higgins, Carl Georgevski, <span class="gI">Bogdan Poprawski and Dave Hay</span>. Everything has worked out well and so far it has been a smooth transition and I am looking forward to actually beginning training sessions and getting my season rolling! I am feeling strong and healthy post hamstring injury and eager to get back to working hard!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1ohY2dedfFAnR2Yy3LnaXM2WYA0o9EH5mtmA8_gjo08yKKhwif6Z28Tf3fsQrkzOlgBcEhGoHLcHMLBdlhsUQlFjIsK_vb222If_lCOIZiCqc0BPp2BXC0nNTR3JBRt5lxkenimyoEI4/s1600-h/indoortrack.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 180px; height: 130px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1ohY2dedfFAnR2Yy3LnaXM2WYA0o9EH5mtmA8_gjo08yKKhwif6Z28Tf3fsQrkzOlgBcEhGoHLcHMLBdlhsUQlFjIsK_vb222If_lCOIZiCqc0BPp2BXC0nNTR3JBRt5lxkenimyoEI4/s200/indoortrack.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5417426372649836050" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSg3_41kBWs_hGRgRlndXpkMPGg3XblzNMj3og-Q7ECM1d6PsAd8rS7hUEPBktSDtVCWwOAeIUVUeQjEeiAL_CqFSu1NqF-l1WNZJl30GVhLly3JpRaZHEUOy5CmdaYNYc5yeP0fI0Mes/s1600-h/IMG_0094_T.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 180px; height: 130px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSg3_41kBWs_hGRgRlndXpkMPGg3XblzNMj3og-Q7ECM1d6PsAd8rS7hUEPBktSDtVCWwOAeIUVUeQjEeiAL_CqFSu1NqF-l1WNZJl30GVhLly3JpRaZHEUOy5CmdaYNYc5yeP0fI0Mes/s200/IMG_0094_T.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5417426526986001346" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-style: italic;">indoor/outdoor track</span></div></div><br />The past couple weeks have been busy as I have resumed training on a basic level with focus simply on fitness. I have found an apartment in Toronto and have been busy packing up and getting ready to take possession this coming week to start moving some things in and making the big move December 27. This will make my first official day of training as a member of the University of Toronto Track Club December 28th!!!!<br /><br />Your Athlete,<br />SusanSushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04027264679457263082noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-920727472575821716.post-7934472864533371762009-11-25T11:03:00.003-05:002009-11-25T11:15:19.366-05:00Ready to TrainHello All,<br /><br />Well time is flying. Can you believe we are officially one month away from Christmas! I bet you are all very excited.<br /><br />I am coming up on my final week of resting and preparing to start the 2009-2010 training season! I have finished up my appointments with the amazing staff at the ISM (Institute of Sport Medicine) and the results are great - my hamstring is 100% healthy and strong, and after intense work with a bio-mechanics physio and the use of EMG, my glutes and hamstrings are sequencing properly when moving and I'm ready to apply this to my running/jumping/throwing and get back to doing what I do best!<br /><br />In between all the appointments to take care of my hamstring and body, I have been lost in conversation and thought about where to train from here to 2012. I have had good chats with my current coach Bart and the coaching staff at UofT and feel like I am blessed with two solid training options. I just have to weigh out the pros and cons and figure out which suits me best for training and chasing my goals. And I don't know yet. I 50/50 and don't know in my gut yet where to go ... so I will promise to keep you posted; when I know, you'll know!<br /><br />Your Athlete,<br />SusanSushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04027264679457263082noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-920727472575821716.post-34607957388733036172009-11-10T12:10:00.002-05:002009-11-10T12:16:02.413-05:00The Best of Us ChallengeHello All,<br /><br />Here is a great link I cam across today - <a href="http://thebestofuschallenge.olympic.org/index.html?fbid=azacUp6abno">The Best of Us Challenge</a>.<br /><br />This is your chance to compete against Olympic athletes from around the world. Each athlete has created a Challenge video where they show off some of their unique talents. Check them out, and maybe even give it a try for yourself :><br /><br />Maybe you guys can come up with your favourite of the challenges or create a challenge of your own, and we can have our own version of this challenge.<br /><br />Enjoy!<br /><br />Your Athlete,<br />SusanSushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04027264679457263082noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-920727472575821716.post-54602337641906471922009-11-04T19:43:00.049-05:002009-11-04T21:59:23.043-05:00Photos from JDLF<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8TV2Y6yzhHV3E2XXOXS4ImtcqTDF0LVyYTGcC3dI3Zli0MfbXUUvzmwRi-JhBYBkBjC3PvTzGCtYGe5yNo3wYE4w-WS5JlkmVzGIK68S-nM0Z8A-XdlhKQAnuxteZlhViQv9aBHj61T4/s1600-h/7822_571536494132_1103122_33630666_5402697_n.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8TV2Y6yzhHV3E2XXOXS4ImtcqTDF0LVyYTGcC3dI3Zli0MfbXUUvzmwRi-JhBYBkBjC3PvTzGCtYGe5yNo3wYE4w-WS5JlkmVzGIK68S-nM0Z8A-XdlhKQAnuxteZlhViQv9aBHj61T4/s320/7822_571536494132_1103122_33630666_5402697_n.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5400427690797791586" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Once through security, this was the entrance to the Athlete Village<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWhCreqMrYFCCBQS6KEaP8PeTKwKspgkxlttpB-Tg4HsC_BImF68xNvNB1by1JaZiDWDTGMLP3jBDLpsS1vX43UiLHg9YqOEMepoLjXymYKWbthyphenhypheng_ezz3zLPOWcnaBpWK8dlFiKgn-p8/s1600-h/7822_571533420292_1103122_33630594_350505_n.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWhCreqMrYFCCBQS6KEaP8PeTKwKspgkxlttpB-Tg4HsC_BImF68xNvNB1by1JaZiDWDTGMLP3jBDLpsS1vX43UiLHg9YqOEMepoLjXymYKWbthyphenhypheng_ezz3zLPOWcnaBpWK8dlFiKgn-p8/s320/7822_571533420292_1103122_33630594_350505_n.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5400428271933919154" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> Opening/Closing Ceremonies Canada Outfit<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo8ut-g5KfFkfOPYWT9hgqsv94U7cat97l1rwND30FTaz8ELYqbB_KlI7LWU-TnncfLUJr4pm6QsY02-sBn6SMhhhhfVp5NsEzMIiqmKxcDVzNmkPe_X-ehdMoa9vevhz4_Y_yXoGjS68/s1600-h/7822_571533430272_1103122_33630596_3138735_n.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo8ut-g5KfFkfOPYWT9hgqsv94U7cat97l1rwND30FTaz8ELYqbB_KlI7LWU-TnncfLUJr4pm6QsY02-sBn6SMhhhhfVp5NsEzMIiqmKxcDVzNmkPe_X-ehdMoa9vevhz4_Y_yXoGjS68/s320/7822_571533430272_1103122_33630596_3138735_n.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5400428691496243074" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br />Team Canada (some 250 athletes from 7 sports) walking in the opening ceremonies<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI0EdNU7w4DWzKMxkTrOZ1OyzkWf3SMm2OEfNbIySCW7LXDltZdHxlrbnC0f83525DFpGzB4multMfiDWO4hy8B1j37rRUkeelT8gZY-Vc7hlzCf_2OnyPD5tWDwWYq35OgixIcrI3-jY/s1600-h/7822_571535501122_1103122_33630643_4143185_n.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI0EdNU7w4DWzKMxkTrOZ1OyzkWf3SMm2OEfNbIySCW7LXDltZdHxlrbnC0f83525DFpGzB4multMfiDWO4hy8B1j37rRUkeelT8gZY-Vc7hlzCf_2OnyPD5tWDwWYq35OgixIcrI3-jY/s320/7822_571535501122_1103122_33630643_4143185_n.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5400431112896248066" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> Entering the stadium from the highway<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivxe-NhdqN-2tQSeWCdXJ-jdp1yvpAgQ5ADNZGDtpuxM_IT-KM4vNL9qcvniOlKbanPTaNPU9tQHTtw78jBP1KXkViu9cDn5Bq88klN080A64UZr0ktDCNfky_qgKEje0pRiBquW-SVIE/s1600-h/7822_571535037052_1103122_33630635_3331158_n.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivxe-NhdqN-2tQSeWCdXJ-jdp1yvpAgQ5ADNZGDtpuxM_IT-KM4vNL9qcvniOlKbanPTaNPU9tQHTtw78jBP1KXkViu9cDn5Bq88klN080A64UZr0ktDCNfky_qgKEje0pRiBquW-SVIE/s320/7822_571535037052_1103122_33630635_3331158_n.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5400436996427166354" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Stadium Entrance<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFBwz_BOLn52ro3XVwMvui0tWidmbBFsc0u9bsNzyUKQ5unMjHWooOCLrosMVe6l62z04Y4o0Xd1uaRqCjJz5dbDh1JpE58rl63ByUf8nLpbf-XehWfcC5PyHXhnxj3hIFQotc61QYujw/s1600-h/7822_571535042042_1103122_33630636_3258726_n.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFBwz_BOLn52ro3XVwMvui0tWidmbBFsc0u9bsNzyUKQ5unMjHWooOCLrosMVe6l62z04Y4o0Xd1uaRqCjJz5dbDh1JpE58rl63ByUf8nLpbf-XehWfcC5PyHXhnxj3hIFQotc61QYujw/s320/7822_571535042042_1103122_33630636_3258726_n.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5400445286559305426" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Competition Stadium<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-WJEACTm6aYRMI8KdxyqW0TE7VA38PMgpBrg14fUN4-evaRvA6e3oq3NDZScaN3lYiGCSQoYMKnlnKugwgLhCvgBhy3MfLfypDJp5OTT1rl7DLJ7cU6EOpYEYbSdtKPTCA77uNuvCQPA/s1600-h/7822_571535047032_1103122_33630637_3337823_n.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-WJEACTm6aYRMI8KdxyqW0TE7VA38PMgpBrg14fUN4-evaRvA6e3oq3NDZScaN3lYiGCSQoYMKnlnKugwgLhCvgBhy3MfLfypDJp5OTT1rl7DLJ7cU6EOpYEYbSdtKPTCA77uNuvCQPA/s320/7822_571535047032_1103122_33630637_3337823_n.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5400445606891439938" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> Warm Up Track<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirjGB8anA1KlHm_jwHAcMo4qCNaHhW1ItDUgqTkD5_pSC8pOvvbhogi1bx_eiZJuqdfJXEtgPe4bHA383iNy23TGLiF2_VgK3yGVMIDeOva7-tESwstHXwWoVjXXP4GzWeCgopGCVXtTM/s1600-h/7822_571536444232_1103122_33630656_2203861_n.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirjGB8anA1KlHm_jwHAcMo4qCNaHhW1ItDUgqTkD5_pSC8pOvvbhogi1bx_eiZJuqdfJXEtgPe4bHA383iNy23TGLiF2_VgK3yGVMIDeOva7-tESwstHXwWoVjXXP4GzWeCgopGCVXtTM/s320/7822_571536444232_1103122_33630656_2203861_n.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5400433699649803522" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Little dip and play time in the Mediterr-<br />anean Sea<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPg3RRHJU3-_vlsSXQEAizQGw2apjE7diAO4CZkWvhAM_-R42-f3Ap3jhDcOh31M7SW6m2hPVhRG5fjf1vb7OZ4CBAjhYeaSEGOetWS_Q7kJBCxrJ-lb__-KKMJeYnHyCY_Zyru8bZ060/s1600-h/7822_571536449222_1103122_33630657_2494957_n.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPg3RRHJU3-_vlsSXQEAizQGw2apjE7diAO4CZkWvhAM_-R42-f3Ap3jhDcOh31M7SW6m2hPVhRG5fjf1vb7OZ4CBAjhYeaSEGOetWS_Q7kJBCxrJ-lb__-KKMJeYnHyCY_Zyru8bZ060/s320/7822_571536449222_1103122_33630657_2494957_n.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5400433919998601106" border="0" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOPe6HG23GJjpKEoMuK9drTYs67GIvefpR1to1P-3DOO9dO4obcvpkjcoruIMZLen0GOuhE_8PU9KVYs829maG0GokmfiaICzJTiYKerTASGz5gkb52ylGDi0_TlGCWDyQsjtR5MJnnP0/s1600-h/7822_571535007112_1103122_33630629_3394611_n.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOPe6HG23GJjpKEoMuK9drTYs67GIvefpR1to1P-3DOO9dO4obcvpkjcoruIMZLen0GOuhE_8PU9KVYs829maG0GokmfiaICzJTiYKerTASGz5gkb52ylGDi0_TlGCWDyQsjtR5MJnnP0/s320/7822_571535007112_1103122_33630629_3394611_n.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5400434544555953602" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><br />Views from the bus, en route to the track<br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiV-Y2F08A8QuYpmVSBHr7gMIitAhutF1foYOgK48tFLSl7gyc3N0nhIMfY9JtBt6DO75EFtllQLfjz8W7qsUAu0CXWjOzBniBhVekRb_bO7Np2Nt0z57e9Sf8vtg3iDPqYO2j7xEVciE/s1600-h/7822_571535017092_1103122_33630631_240435_n.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiV-Y2F08A8QuYpmVSBHr7gMIitAhutF1foYOgK48tFLSl7gyc3N0nhIMfY9JtBt6DO75EFtllQLfjz8W7qsUAu0CXWjOzBniBhVekRb_bO7Np2Nt0z57e9Sf8vtg3iDPqYO2j7xEVciE/s320/7822_571535017092_1103122_33630631_240435_n.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5400434873198908482" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjScyM63zULHXaQYjPF_ie8cYx33TBiVWBkFM_QZlXe_KWzTf4iVmzKEk7j110hsDY9lCleRx8Mp7GXAn2nQAWX0MD8n4jLIjkj9LZNymby4VAEB-XzFhnutuoaILirQARuFPO_yI5_ceA/s1600-h/7822_571536978162_1103122_33630675_7816029_n.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjScyM63zULHXaQYjPF_ie8cYx33TBiVWBkFM_QZlXe_KWzTf4iVmzKEk7j110hsDY9lCleRx8Mp7GXAn2nQAWX0MD8n4jLIjkj9LZNymby4VAEB-XzFhnutuoaILirQARuFPO_yI5_ceA/s320/7822_571536978162_1103122_33630675_7816029_n.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5400435217885978354" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />The Wooded Hills of Mount Lebanon, en route to the<br />Jeita Grotto<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibZYXgZa3LJIoMQQfm-GKJ2CBwU9xqp6x6FAcO3Ab88oKkGWcPmU5npE2meQ3M2J4YFZqYAr6JWZON-R3LNpPEo6uQiiO2HqY9uqFOPTSuafkcHdDpJMV2yq4meHoRJ44g0FOCMnYcpB4/s1600-h/7822_571537008102_1103122_33630681_5499431_n.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibZYXgZa3LJIoMQQfm-GKJ2CBwU9xqp6x6FAcO3Ab88oKkGWcPmU5npE2meQ3M2J4YFZqYAr6JWZON-R3LNpPEo6uQiiO2HqY9uqFOPTSuafkcHdDpJMV2yq4meHoRJ44g0FOCMnYcpB4/s320/7822_571537008102_1103122_33630681_5499431_n.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5400443284433625714" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Rock BaySushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04027264679457263082noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-920727472575821716.post-33949340255210334212009-11-04T18:58:00.003-05:002009-11-11T18:54:35.700-05:00Healthy Hamstring!Hello,<br /><br />Good news, this past Friday, my follow up ultrasound revealed a healthy hamstring. The tear has completely closed and there is no sign of scar tissue! On the other hand, the muscle is still quite weak and I have to complete daily physiotherapy exercises to re-strengthen the hamstring to be ready to handle the amount of stress from a regular training session.<br /><br />I am continually amazed at the attention to detail of the medical staff at the ISM (institute of sport medicine). Minimizing the amount of time an athlete sits out of training due to injury is always a priority. However, it was not enough just to repair a torn hamstring in 3 weeks, compared to a recovery time of up to 6 weeks minus the injections; they needed to know why the tear happened in the first place to prevent future problems.<br /><br />To do this, I was hooked up to an EMG for my hamstring and glutes to observe the firing pattern. The results we not great and clearly pointed to a cause of my tear. What the test showed was that my hamstring fires 0.3sec too quickly and before my glutes, which is an incorrect order. As a result, I have added to my list of physio/recovery exercises and have to retrain this pattern of fire between my glutes/hamstring to prevent future injuries.<br /><br />And now, the goal is to work daily at the exercises and retest in 2-3 weeks to ensure I am doing the exercises correctly and then add to the degree of difficulty and get closer to adapting the drills to what I require in my sport. Therefore, it now looks like my season will be slightly delayed and begin this year at the start of December. This seems like a late start date, however, my current season has just ended at the start of October, I needed to fully recover emotionally and physically after one season before a new one can properly begin, and next season will go until the end of October with the goal of the Common Wealth Games.<br /><br />Overall, I feel like things are going well and I am looking forward to what comes next. As for an update on the coaching front … still no decision … but getting there!<br /><br />Hope you all had a safe and happy Halloween!<br /><br />Your Athlete,<br />SusanSushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04027264679457263082noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-920727472575821716.post-58297197184510835642009-10-27T14:44:00.003-04:002009-10-27T14:51:50.978-04:00As A New Season Approaches ...Hello All,<br /><br />As a new season approaches, I am about to put this one behind me! My hamstring is coming along really well. As of last Friday, the ultrasound revealed that the tear is down to 4mm x 2mm and there is no scar tissue left. I have had two series of plasma injections, weekly massage, and started with physiotherapy to work eccentric load on the muscle. In the next 2-3 weeks I should be able to put this injury behind me and feel stronger and wiser to start a new season. <br /><br />In the coming weeks I'll complete a stress test with my sport psychologist and determine my level of stress whether I've rested enough to start a new season! And where that will be ... I still don't know. I am in conversation with a couple coaches and will know for sure in the coming weeks. So stay posted!<br /><br />I hope you are all doing well. I hope those of you who competed in the cross country meet performed well and had some fun out there with your fellow runners! Keep up the great work!<br /><br />Your Athlete,<br />SusanSushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04027264679457263082noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-920727472575821716.post-29019193438206116172009-10-19T22:58:00.002-04:002009-10-19T23:00:49.435-04:00Support Canadian Athletes!Hello,<br /><br />Here is a great video, sent to me by my sport psychologist to help gain perspective. I hope we can all get behind our Canadian Athletes this coming Winter Olympics and just support them all the way!<br /><br />Click <a href="http://thestar.blogs.com/olympics/2009/10/this-is-a-very-cool-video-on-chandra-crawford-and-clara-hughes-put-together-by-glen-crawford-chandras-dad--glen-crawford-is.html">here</a> for the video.<br /><br />Your Athlete,<br />SusanSushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04027264679457263082noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-920727472575821716.post-18140204057494946572009-10-19T22:24:00.002-04:002009-10-19T22:40:49.717-04:00Photos from Arles Competition12 Meeting International d'Athlétisme d'Arles<br /><br />6 & 7 June 2009<br /><br />Final score: 5696 points - 6th place finish<br /><br /><embed type="application/x-shockwave-flash" src="http://picasaweb.google.ca/s/c/bin/slideshow.swf" width="288" height="192" flashvars="host=picasaweb.google.ca&hl=en_US&feat=flashalbum&RGB=0x000000&feed=http%3A%2F%2Fpicasaweb.google.ca%2Fdata%2Ffeed%2Fapi%2Fuser%2Fsusan.coltman%2Falbumid%2F5394501723311449281%3Falt%3Drss%26kind%3Dphoto%26hl%3Den_US" pluginspage="http://www.macromedia.com/go/getflashplayer"></embed><br /><br />Your Athlete,<br />SusanSushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04027264679457263082noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-920727472575821716.post-65475738953009826662009-10-19T16:22:00.006-04:002009-10-19T21:41:23.385-04:00Jeux de la Francophonie<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihMmJU9816rU81KIxCpN5EX3h1EahUu7Ddo3PBxJq12lsUSn2Ba85R8flRfA0Frmt5xoKmtPcbaJVn489bMDCH-LLAFlQjQYdtRbvi7IY_WzEjdT6KRJurBicpkCb6XWfH0KWXCOVOV8Q/s1600-h/logo.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 169px; height: 158px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihMmJU9816rU81KIxCpN5EX3h1EahUu7Ddo3PBxJq12lsUSn2Ba85R8flRfA0Frmt5xoKmtPcbaJVn489bMDCH-LLAFlQjQYdtRbvi7IY_WzEjdT6KRJurBicpkCb6XWfH0KWXCOVOV8Q/s200/logo.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394490672477175154" /></a><br />What a learning and eye opening experience the Francophone Games was for me! I arrived and it was a complete shock to my system and emotional state and I even considered just turning around and going back home. However, being able to adapt to tough and uncontrollable circumstances is also a part of being at this level in sports and competing in international competitions.<br /><br />Before coming, we were informed of the Canadian travel advisory to Lebanon. However, somewhat naïve, you think if they designate this a competition site, then it must be considered safe on some level. Not so much! We had 24 hour military escorts to go just about anywhere. The track was only about 20 mins down the road from the village, however, we first had to load onto a special bus, and the military and police guided the bus down the road. The frustrating thing was that this whole process took up to two hours!<br /><br />After dealing with the shock, I experienced the first couple of days here and leaning to just accept it for what it was, I started to just relax and focus on the reasons I was there – to compete and take in the experience of a multisport international competition. I was training every day and just focused on being ready to compete. However, four days out of the competition, during my last speed session, and my last 150m I tore my right hamstring. It was frustrating, as there was no indication or pain or tension in the muscle, it just tore mid-stride, and I was finished. I dropped to the track, experienced the fear of being in the hands of the Lebanese Ambulance crew, as I was rushed to the medical centre. Thankfully Team Canada sent a full medical staff, so I was treated by Canadian doctors and physiotherapists.<br /><br />Unfortunately, putting an early finish on an already frustrating season, I did not compete. I was determined and tried to work with physiotherapist there daily, 2-3 per day, but there was only so much that could be done for a hamstring tear. So sadly, after speaking with the doctors, and still trying to warm up and compete, the pain was too high, and the risk too great, so I had to withdraw before the start of the hurdles. <br /><br />Now I am back to working with Dr. Galea in Toronto to undergo plasma platelet injections and will soon start with physiotherapy, under the direction of Kevin Hickey and resume eccentric work to rebuild strength in my hamstring. I hope that in 3-4 weeks I am fully recovered and able to start my base training for a new season.<br /><br />Your Athlete,<br />SusanSushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04027264679457263082noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-920727472575821716.post-34429914696703159932009-08-31T04:14:00.008-04:002009-09-02T16:34:07.703-04:00Champion In Woerden!Hello,<br /><br />Susan Coltman is back and has a new personal record of 5895 points! This weekend I was the champion of Woerden International Combined Events Competition and took my first podium finish at the senior level! It was a solid collection of results, with just hurdles and high jump as personal event records, but overall enough to amount to a six point improvement in my overall score, raising it from 5889 points to 5895 points!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOyDeFXs7cnltCYeJdp5tkgm0H77dpuZouvTWmA3WbNlMoUkc7ry8eUa-P9t73Vyx1__ASeJwfYEx6KTxHCD7V9Sk-7Cr2OqPerTZVxbZgB0Fj_I4ynTvTZZjvbgp8u8l_MrYtaEPAsHc/s1600-h/ROB_2935.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 229px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOyDeFXs7cnltCYeJdp5tkgm0H77dpuZouvTWmA3WbNlMoUkc7ry8eUa-P9t73Vyx1__ASeJwfYEx6KTxHCD7V9Sk-7Cr2OqPerTZVxbZgB0Fj_I4ynTvTZZjvbgp8u8l_MrYtaEPAsHc/s320/ROB_2935.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376671588508509442" border="0" /></a><br />After my share of disappointments and frustration this past season, I cannot fully express what a feeling it is to have been out there this weekend with a smile on my face event to event and enjoying my talents and seeing the benefit of just relaxing and letting a good performance happen! Thanks to my coach Bart Bennema and to Tom Patrick, sport psychologist, for bringing me to this moment!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIpJI3hUZ4fIU4Z8oU8PgwAiRjBbtD-uZT7P6TfOzjOAamcVzyUf8UyoPq8FanGNvg4fxq1y9HYg36cIq3fEEFtnoXpHtU6hxgOgyGl7SpW8k2vTYvwQmsO5ChCOx7J9-F9P1KpKLMcBk/s1600-h/ROB_2097.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 143px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIpJI3hUZ4fIU4Z8oU8PgwAiRjBbtD-uZT7P6TfOzjOAamcVzyUf8UyoPq8FanGNvg4fxq1y9HYg36cIq3fEEFtnoXpHtU6hxgOgyGl7SpW8k2vTYvwQmsO5ChCOx7J9-F9P1KpKLMcBk/s200/ROB_2097.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376970051662738434" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT9HYbrvmybZ8Ce1XU2-vMS_NT1ErQeehLh-I1i0pFsyZSgEy8IF1LV4R2rbDc7kxNDAQdqnr4yjTLlZthZBFjOpWrsO3wKWvBZGy9BHZsxs2v7j8qOg3u2EPrPx3OfX5igbxKqiG6JmI/s1600-h/ROB_2329.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 143px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT9HYbrvmybZ8Ce1XU2-vMS_NT1ErQeehLh-I1i0pFsyZSgEy8IF1LV4R2rbDc7kxNDAQdqnr4yjTLlZthZBFjOpWrsO3wKWvBZGy9BHZsxs2v7j8qOg3u2EPrPx3OfX5igbxKqiG6JmI/s200/ROB_2329.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376970284764241026" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvf7929dWpQGwiziDmnsTfeGlXeKz-YHlClxafCvVvFbbqdo9CfKXJ1-Tp3QOhyphenhyphenwKm1Vt95Ap-whe2zKWAUhKj301CSZA2UhyxCcz7hWQ4RQKmrHy7nMtGZRf9aPx9V7herZ-AJyAy71Q/s1600-h/ROB_2711.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 196px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvf7929dWpQGwiziDmnsTfeGlXeKz-YHlClxafCvVvFbbqdo9CfKXJ1-Tp3QOhyphenhyphenwKm1Vt95Ap-whe2zKWAUhKj301CSZA2UhyxCcz7hWQ4RQKmrHy7nMtGZRf9aPx9V7herZ-AJyAy71Q/s200/ROB_2711.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376970882962320290" border="0" /></a>I found this quote today, and I think it is very appropriate to share at this moment: Robert H. Schuller - "Tough times never last, but tough people do."<br /><br />Tomorrow I fly back to Canada and take a small rest, before some serious training leading into the Francophone Games - October 03/04.<br /><br />Your Athlete,<br />SusanSushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04027264679457263082noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-920727472575821716.post-85599714468349719852009-08-29T12:51:00.002-04:002009-08-29T13:09:10.964-04:00It's Coming BackHello,<br /><br />Well, I'm smiling and happy to say I'm getting it back in competition! Today was day one of the competition and finally my first personal best result of the season, coming from hurdles and high jump! This weekend the focus is about keeping things simple, just smiling, enjoying and thinking about just one simple cue for each event - and it's working!<br /><br />Today's results were 13.62 sec on the hurdles. And high jump was the best comeback, clearing 1.73m on my first attempt. My previous competition was the Canadian National Championships where I had a very disappointing and slightly shocking 1.61m final clearance. I opened the competition jumping 1.58m, and jumped clean through 1.61, 1.64, 1.67, 1.70*pb, and 1.73*pb ... well officially my pb in high jump stands at 1.76, taking off from the left leg, but with the switch in take off this past year to my right, my best clearance to date has been 1.69m earlier this year in Italy and France. Then to the shot, only 13.02m. I had a solid warm up for this event and was hitting close to the 14m line, but then in competition I started to feel that mental pressure of "I wanna throw now over 14" and I shut down a little. But I was ok, I relaxed after that throw and was focused to just run the 200m, and it was ok - 24.98sec. Not a pb, but def a solid time and basically can improve yet. After 150m my fitness was failing me, but that will come back , so no worries. <br /><br />All in all, a solid first day and great sense of relief that things are going back in the right direction and I'm enjoying myself out there :> Now to keep smiling and enjoy day two - longjump, javelin, and 800m!<br /><br />Your Athlete,<br />SusanSushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04027264679457263082noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-920727472575821716.post-91659897193846543502009-08-27T03:13:00.004-04:002009-08-27T03:30:09.856-04:00Competition TimeHello,<br /><br />Well after 3 weeks of rest following the nationals, travelling back to Holland and adjusting once again the jetlag, and 6 weeks of training, I'm ready to get out there and compete! This weekend I will be competing in a heptathlon at a mini-international competition in Woerden, in the south of Holland. I say "mini" as in previous years the competition was at a higher level and more international competitors, but anyway it is still a good competition and a nice way to enjoy my last few days in Holland. Tuesday, back home in Canada!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitCFHvTrNv64Hz0ZwLK7C6JgCrwWyyZGNPWogNfWiee1IT4jADWx54JoQrkRF9AI3pmxhhClXJL_i10oH4APkdZ-D15eDqGUWy2RC_1-wOK8beXyilZ_uxNQIvfwIueaZN_eT2SMMqxP0/s1600-h/img_2482_jpg.jpeg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitCFHvTrNv64Hz0ZwLK7C6JgCrwWyyZGNPWogNfWiee1IT4jADWx54JoQrkRF9AI3pmxhhClXJL_i10oH4APkdZ-D15eDqGUWy2RC_1-wOK8beXyilZ_uxNQIvfwIueaZN_eT2SMMqxP0/s320/img_2482_jpg.jpeg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5374542418975738866" border="0" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Woerden International Combined Events Competition 2007</span></span><br /></div><br />Here is a link the the compeition: <a href="http://meeting.clytoneus.nl/">http://meeting.clytoneus.nl/</a> And for those interested in following results, just click on "Uitslagen" on the left hand menu.<br /><br />Wish me luck!!!<br /><br />Your Athlete,<br />SusanSushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04027264679457263082noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-920727472575821716.post-66087645614876299822009-08-24T06:58:00.006-04:002009-08-27T03:42:33.580-04:00Change Can Be A Good ThingHello,<br /><br />Well, I hope you are enjoying the final days of your summer holiday! Almost time for school to start again ... sorry, possible sore subject?! hehe <br /><br />Things are going ok on this end. One week till my heptathlon competition in Woerden and I’m actually getting excited to get out there and compete – been some time since I could actually say that! Training is going well, and I’m gaining one or two things in each event at the moment that I think I can carry through next weekend and play with to just enjoy competing and put less focus on results! Here’s hoping!<br /><br />I have had a few emotional days making possible final preparations with Bart and discussing options for next year (whether to train here in Holland or go home to Canada!). He’s now gone on holiday, so we have said our goodbyes which this time was much less dramatic in feeling than when I left in June! I think this time around the difference is the sense of rest from what happened this season to date and where I’m heading next year. I was having a hard time shaking this feeling of being scared and unwilling to leave here, but after talking to some good friends, I think I know why.<br /><br />The hardest part of saying goodbye to Bart was this fear of losing his friendship when I stay in Canada. However, when I’m honest with myself, going home to train does make sense and helps me be in the best position for 2012 qualification. Then a friend pointed out to me that Bart will always be like family to me and we’ll find ways to stay in touch – think about the reverse, living in Holland at the moment I manage to stay in touch with family and friends ok back home!<br /><br />It’s just that after 4 years together I am very comfortable working with Bart and value his friendship. But I guess this is just part of our journey. He made a joke 4 years ago that if I was serious about training I needed to be here in Holland and he would coach me. Ultimately the joke was on him, because I packed my bags, arranged a visa and showed up ready to train! Thing is, at that moment, it <span style="font-style:italic;">was</span> just what I needed – I saw the opportunity of a fresh start and someone who believed in me, someone who taught me to believe in myself!<br /><br />Now, compared to 4 years ago, I have a strong PB in the heptathlon, a world ranking, and potential to improve much further still! I am aware of what works and what doesn’t work and finally financially independent as a full-time athlete! All in all, I’m in a position to stand up for myself and not just ask, but demand the best for me!<br /><br />So, I’m opening myself up to the idea of training with Andy Higgins in Toronto or Les Gramantik in Calgary. I’m ready to embrace this opportunity to challenge myself on new fronts and get back to my roots. But it’s a funny thing about coming home – looks the same, smells the same, feels the same. You’ll realize what’s changed is you. After 4 years at university in America and 4 years living in Holland, it feels strange to come “home” to Canada and realize just how much I’ve changed since I left. <br /><br />I’ve always considered myself a free spirit, go where the wind goes and take chances. I say to myself I am independent, hardworking and stubborn enough to handle what life throws me. I always trust that my family will love me whether I win or lose the various battles, and home would always be there when I was ready – I just didn’t think home would come so soon.<br /><br />I had hoped Bart would be my coach throughout my career, bring me all the way – that we would stand together in London in 2012, and feel proud of our 7 year partnership and journey. Because of that hope, I felt at first that I was failing to make Holland work. Like going home was some sort of consolation. Then I stopped myself and took a good long look at this past year: how tough it was, how often I struggled and how lost I felt the past few months. Going home is not a consolation at all. It’s just realizing my limits and saying, I need my family and friends – there’s nothing defeated about that!<br /><br />If I could have the best of both worlds, I would pack Bart in my suitcase and bring him with me, but his life is here. He’s shaping up to be a top coach in Holland and has his own journey to take. Therefore, our paths may soon part as coach and athlete, but I know as friends, we’ll always stay in touch.<br /><br />Then again, nothing is truly decided for next year and beyond! For now I’ll try stay focused on the upcoming two competitions and getting back to just enjoying my talent as a track athlete! Come October, I’ll take the necessary time to make the best choice for myself and how to proceed forward!<br /><br />Your Athlete,<br />SusanSushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04027264679457263082noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-920727472575821716.post-15156326619683118782009-08-11T16:21:00.008-04:002009-08-24T07:22:22.435-04:00Since We Last Spoke . . .Hello Again!<br /><br />I hope you are all enjoying your summer vacation! Location wise I find myself back in Holland till the end of August. <br /><br />My goal this year was to achieve 6000 points and qualify for the World Championships, however I didn't reach my goal. After finishing second at the Canadian National Championships and a score of only 5710 points, I took a break from training. I enjoyed being home with family and friends, and lots of good food without following an eating schedule! <br /><br />While I was home, I requested the help of Sport Canada and found myself in the hands of a sport psychologist working out of Toronto. Tom is working to help “normalize” my experience of this past year and bring my awareness to the fact that every athlete will experience a moment like this in his or her career, more or less. <br /><br />Our primary goal is about clearing my expectations and learning to get back to enjoying my sport. I am taking some space and rest from times, distances, standards and the milestone of 6000 points, which I chased all year. I am trying to gain some perspective on these goals to understand their true place. <br /><br />This year, I was faced with a reality check of sorts. I came to Holland this year prepared to train hard and adjust to a new setting. However, I ask now if it was too much of a good thing?! I thought it was great, training in a great location, great coach, training mates and what seemed an ideal living situation. However, it was all track! The largest difficulty I had this year was that I lacked a support system. I had just me here and it was just training and recovery, training and recovery. With that, more and more of my identity became wrapped up in my performance. Therefore, at this moment I need to learn to remove my self worth from falling short. <br /><br />Things are going well. I am learning to keep things simple and get back to enjoying just the movements of my sport. I am feeling sure that I will be stronger for going through this year and be ready to resume my path to London, 2012 Olympics!<br /><br />For now, my plan is to compete in Woerden, The Netherlands (August 29/30) and to finish off my season, I will compete at the Jeux de la Francophonie in Beirut, Lebanon (October 03/04). <br /><br />Your Athlete,<br />SusanSushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04027264679457263082noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-920727472575821716.post-86522726830354078112009-06-09T05:17:00.001-04:002009-06-09T05:19:28.005-04:00Good LuckHello,<br /><br />Just wishing everyone competing tomorrow at the track and field day all the best. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Enjoy and have fun!</span><br /><br />Your Athlete,<br />SusanSushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04027264679457263082noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-920727472575821716.post-65718929311703928882009-06-03T08:59:00.004-04:002009-06-03T11:34:24.986-04:00Arles BoundIt is now four weeks since my last competition in Desenzano del Garda, Italy. Four weeks spent recovering my injured foot, regaining strength, fitness and confidence after things went every which way but what we hoped for from that competition. <br /><br />To sum things up: I had failed to meet an important goal that I felt had been a realistic one. I had carried out one of the worst performances of my career when it was most important for me to do my best. This thought has filled me with self-doubt, self-damnation, worry and even guilt for letting myself down. However, I had not tried to do poorly. Moreover, this loss was not me – it was just something I was experiencing!<br /><br />I asked myself a few questions: do I believe I deserve the success I am having? Am I afraid I cannon maintain that success? That was my fear talking. However, giving over to fear was dishonest to all the hard work, time and effort on my part and Bart’s to achieve our success. <br /><br />Just like training my skills over the hurdles, or throwing the shot put, learning to make the journey from immediate loss to eventual gain is important – finding the lessons in loss has an interesting way of putting you back in control. <br /><br />What I learned about me, and what I need to be at my best in competition is quite simple. I need to keep my focus on one task and to acknowledge that all the hard work is done when I go to the start of a competition – I no longer can control any details, but rather just focus on 1 to 2 cues, and just go on feeling great! <br /><br />As you know by now, quotes help me to express what I sometimes cannot find words for on my own. I thought of many examples, but settled on some lyrics from a pop song – thinking of Danielle's list of Role Models, here’s Miley Cyrus’ The Climb: <br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">I can almost see it<br />That dream I am dreaming<br />But there’s a voice inside my head saying<br />“you’ll never reach it.”<br /><br />Every move I make feels<br />Lost with no direction<br />My faith is shaking<br /><br />But I gotta keep trying<br />Gotta keep my head held high<br /><br />The struggles I’m facing<br />The chances I’m taking<br />Sometimes might knock me down<br />But no, I’m not breaking.</span><br /><br />So, with a renewed sense of confidence, rest in my head from panic, and a simple game plan, I will make my way to the south of France tomorrow, to compete in Arles. You can follow results at the following link: <a href="http://www.iaaf.org/wce09/results/eventCode=4155/index.html">http://www.iaaf.org/wce09/results/eventCode=4155/index.html</a><br /><br />I am going out there to have fun, finish the competition in one piece and feel better prepared to head home in just over a week to Canada and prepare for the Trials for the World Championships, held June25-26 in Toronto, Ontario!<br /><br />Wish me luck!<br /><br />Your Athlete,<br />SusanSushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04027264679457263082noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-920727472575821716.post-79651646521604110912009-05-24T10:10:00.000-04:002009-05-24T10:11:24.368-04:00Desenzano Photos<a href="%3Cembed%20type=%22application/x-shockwave-flash%22%20src=%22http://picasaweb.google.com/s/c/bin/slideshow.swf%22%20width=%22400%22%20height=%22267%22%20flashvars=%22host=picasaweb.google.com&hl=en_US&feat=flashalbum&RGB=0x000000&feed=http%3A%2F%2Fpicasaweb.google.com%2Fdata%2Ffeed%2Fapi%2Fuser%2Fsusan.coltman%2Falbumid%2F5339390355130099393%3Falt%3Drss%26kind%3Dphoto%26hl%3Den_US%22%20pluginspage=%22http://www.macromedia.com/go/getflashplayer%22%3E%3C/embed%3E"><embed type="application/x-shockwave-flash" src="http://picasaweb.google.com/s/c/bin/slideshow.swf" width="400" height="267" flashvars="host=picasaweb.google.com&hl=en_US&feat=flashalbum&RGB=0x000000&feed=http%3A%2F%2Fpicasaweb.google.com%2Fdata%2Ffeed%2Fapi%2Fuser%2Fsusan.coltman%2Falbumid%2F5339390355130099393%3Falt%3Drss%26kind%3Dphoto%26hl%3Den_US" pluginspage="http://www.macromedia.com/go/getflashplayer"></embed></a>Sushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04027264679457263082noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-920727472575821716.post-88673229488401453212009-05-24T09:11:00.005-04:002009-05-26T16:41:29.318-04:00Post DesenzanoWhere do I start today, other than to repeat myself – when you fall down, just get back up again!<br /><br />My goal as your role model is to give you someone to look up to, an example of someone in pursuit of her own excellence. I want to show you my bravery and dedication; in hopes that you will become as courageous and focused to achieve your very own goals.<br /><br />To tell my story, I cannot only talk to you about success - a large part is learning from personal struggle and hardship. One of the most simple and sound pieces of advice I have been handed in my years as an athlete and over achiever, is this: if it were easy, everyone would do it!<br /><br />In Desenzano, I was caught up in my nerves and my nerves got the best of me. I let myself and my coach down and I am in the middle of picking myself up and learning that this is merely my new touchstone of when things get rough.<br /><br />Here is the thing: It is easy to sit around and fantasize about what you want. The hard part is going after it. Interestingly enough, one of my fears (on a long list) might simply be a fear of success. I have a fear of results; I set a high standard for myself and while I think I am able, I do not always believe it. When I was in Desenzano, I was focused on my fear. I was focused on the consequences of failure. Let me tell you, this was overwhelming.<br /><br />However, I have taken a step back. I have accepted my mistake, as if it truly were a mistake. But really, it was a moment I had a chance to learn about myself. I learnt that I need to look at the numbers before a competition and have a set goal for each event and overall. I know this now, and it does not feel overwhelming, nor out of reach.<br /><br />A fun fact about fear is, once it is identified, it turns into something else and hopefully on it is way to becoming irrelevant. As for worrying about what I imagine “other” people to think of me, I am reminded of a story from a fellow old university teammate. He recently shared his story and it put this point into perspective:<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">One of the things that I remember about our former coach is that every once in a while, when I was sitting and stretching before or after practice, Coach would walk by and say, “Hey, guess who was asking about you today?” I would answer, “Who?” And then Coach would say, “No one.”</span><br /><br />I chose this career as an athlete for myself. I work hard because I love this sport. I think that what is important to inspire others is sharing the fact that you falter and doubt your ability to carry on, but that you pick yourself up again stronger than before, doubly committed to your goal, and you press on to the end.<br /><br />Being in pursuit of excellence means we set a goal, make a plan, and work toward it. However, every now and then we need to look around, drink it in, because this is it. I have taken a moment to think of my accomplishments to date and be proud of me; know that I have an inner strength that will bring me through this current struggle and get back to enjoying competition.<br /><br />As of today, it is just under two weeks till Arles, France. I am using visualization exercises to prepare myself for what it will be like at the start of the events and find confidence to relax. I will find a way to tap into that strength that has gotten me this far and hopefully this will unlock all the training and preparation to be fearless out there!<br /><br />Your Athlete,<br />Susan<br /><br />p.s. My foot is on the mend. I have been to physiotherapy and the joint is in place and now it just needs time for the tendons to heal. I have started to run again, slowly for now, but by the end of this coming week we hope to start with some explosive work and sprints. I think there will be some pain, but overall, the foot will be ready for Arles!Sushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04027264679457263082noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-920727472575821716.post-13829612361843965942009-05-11T02:20:00.004-04:002009-05-11T14:33:18.751-04:00DesenzanoHello,<br /><br />Well, there is always a plan B for a reason. If you have seen the results, you know I did not finish the competition. During my long jump warm-up, I was doing some practice jumps on the track and landed one on the side of my foot and injured my ankle/foot. <br /><br />Long sigh ... it was a difficult choice not to finish the competition. However, I had to think about long term and focus on the mental and physical recovery for the next competition in a months time. <br /><br />The results of the first 5 events: <br />100mH - 13.90sec<br />HighJump - 1.69m<br />ShotPut - 13.37m<br />200m - 25.04sec<br />LongJump - 5.83m<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxpBBjQZEHJaZaGBd0k82mr40Z-z2yM7JWElAiaXTWvhQpxRfMcnt66Gev_AiqdjhtXU13zwu-wMd9Jq1kbz_DmTgZWjqZrOv3dd68FPb8z6JGXzGvq59HaV5yspKipmJtTgA6m6GdhQ0/s1600-h/P1014803.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxpBBjQZEHJaZaGBd0k82mr40Z-z2yM7JWElAiaXTWvhQpxRfMcnt66Gev_AiqdjhtXU13zwu-wMd9Jq1kbz_DmTgZWjqZrOv3dd68FPb8z6JGXzGvq59HaV5yspKipmJtTgA6m6GdhQ0/s200/P1014803.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5334635682565848930" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgobGKBQQRuCM_TFmAZtvTuuljltXsdaBFE1isf_1vLX2024PP3UcRJBkJHfNOpLLg5WNbTS52cKc2ph4kzyM5Uk8jXGCx-1IHtxOo2rd_N2v_FpPu7uUViQusroy9dWljSHSV79yb7Xtg/s1600-h/P1014848.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgobGKBQQRuCM_TFmAZtvTuuljltXsdaBFE1isf_1vLX2024PP3UcRJBkJHfNOpLLg5WNbTS52cKc2ph4kzyM5Uk8jXGCx-1IHtxOo2rd_N2v_FpPu7uUViQusroy9dWljSHSV79yb7Xtg/s200/P1014848.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5334636082974717138" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyTHX4-PUwPWmLnwi0pAnyc7SgA-zplLAnRg2nojfKvlzpwvArz0jm8rcHTg6fufEinvyN-jK11s-OU47wA0IcauAw5SCwMSk3uiPUvJLFVZJorSgw4kIrbyS0G8mQs4CssTDElKqfiZg/s1600-h/P1014821.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyTHX4-PUwPWmLnwi0pAnyc7SgA-zplLAnRg2nojfKvlzpwvArz0jm8rcHTg6fufEinvyN-jK11s-OU47wA0IcauAw5SCwMSk3uiPUvJLFVZJorSgw4kIrbyS0G8mQs4CssTDElKqfiZg/s200/P1014821.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5334636075741905122" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr-l6FkYmNFT_H9YljlgO-UPd5yRjOS_MfyaA2MGW3eo0A1Z3AgROPH0XEXFeq62eUDeT8_OlZdfJ89a8cDqAo3_QDa1yRLUMIDz_rq16FzaD24aU4Y9mCuZ-izTXkfBr2McJj6KZ8858/s1600-h/P1014820.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr-l6FkYmNFT_H9YljlgO-UPd5yRjOS_MfyaA2MGW3eo0A1Z3AgROPH0XEXFeq62eUDeT8_OlZdfJ89a8cDqAo3_QDa1yRLUMIDz_rq16FzaD24aU4Y9mCuZ-izTXkfBr2McJj6KZ8858/s200/P1014820.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5334636074390837634" /></a><br /><br />Overall, I can say it was an average result for opening the season, but I was not pleased. I felt very tired and just never found my rhythm here in Italy. I think at this moment, that I put too much pressure on myself and expected too much from just one competition. I need to remember that sometimes we need to just keep taking small steps to move forward and trust that we'll get there. <br /><br />Now, I will head back to Holland and I will start my recovery. I hope to be back to training in 1-2 weeks. From there I will most likely head to Arles, France 06-07 June. <br /><br />Well this is all a part of sports. I just have to go through this and get myself ready for the next one!<br /><br />Your Athlete,<br />SusanSushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04027264679457263082noreply@blogger.com0