I’ve narrowed my list of Ironman 70.3’s down to two, The Vineman 70.3 in Sonoma County CA and Steelhead in Benton Harbor MI. Both races seem awesome. I think California sounds appealing cause in my mind it would be sort of a mini-vacation in reality I’d be 70.3 miles of racing!
Benton Harbor is also awesome. I haven’t been up there in over 10 years. I love the area, it’s close enough to drive, which eliminates have to ship my bike (which I don’t have yet).
But I’m getting ahead of myself. I still need to win the Distance Challenge in order to pick my race, and by the tone in Adam’s voice this morning he’s not going to make it easy! I told him I was confident that I would win, and in turn pick the event.
Plus there is a LOT of work to do in the training department still to come. Which brings me to my next order of business… I’VE GOT A COACH!!! 
I mentioned last week that I was looking for some guidance. I emailed a few places/coaches one of them being Coach Jen Harrison. I first heard about Coach Jen from CubicleDad, andafter doing some research on coaches and coaching, I knew I had to work with her. When I told her that I was ready to get started on her program she replied
“PHIL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! This is the best news ever!!! YOU will love it!”
How’s that for enthusiasm? I filled out some initial paper work talking about the goals I have for next year and what races I want to run. Then on Monday we’re going to chat and I’ll findout what the next step is!
I’m anxious to get started, and looking forward to a new year, a new program and a new event!
Phil Castello 
You are out of your mind. There is one right in Lake of Zurich. THATS MY VOTE!
When was the last time you were in that Lake? If I remember correctly, it’s pretty gross.
LOOKING FORWARD to it!!!!
Phil! Awesome!!!
Thanks!