Coach Patrick here with your latest update as we roll through April. This edition comes to you fresh off a whirlwind trip to Europe, just in time for the Easter holiday and with Ironman season fully underway. If your spring calendar looks anything like mine—jam-packed with racing, training, and a few surprise curveballs—you’re in good company.
A European Adventure on Two Wheels
I just returned from an unforgettable 11-day cycling trip through Belgium and France with some of our Endurance Nation teammates. If you’re a fan of pro cycling—especially the one-day Spring Classics—this trip should absolutely be on your radar. Riding the iconic cobbled climbs was even more intense than expected. It’s one thing to watch these races on TV, but another entirely to grind up those punishing stones yourself.
It was the perfect mix of challenging terrain, rich cycling culture, and team camaraderie. And yes, we’ve already got ideas brewing for more European adventures in 2026.
Workout File Fixes and Gear Orders
Back on the home front, I want to thank everyone for their patience as I corrected some errors in the new 70.3 and Ironman bike workout files. Somehow, a few plans were missing pieces—definitely not ideal. I’ve since updated the links on the Plan Description Page inside the New Members Admin site. You can now download the weeks you need individually. I also removed the bulk download to avoid further confusion.
On the gear side, the first round of orders has been submitted—just in time to beat those last-minute tariffs. If you missed out, no worries. Champs is always open for ordering. Feel free to grab what you need whenever it works for you.
Shifting Toward Race Execution
As we move into the back half of April, our team’s focus is shifting toward race execution. We’ve already seen big events like 70.3 Galveston come and go, and now Ironman Texas is just around the corner. If you’re racing, or supporting someone who is, now is the time to dial in your strategy.
Execution—not just fitness—is what makes or breaks your race. Over the next few weeks, we’ll be talking more about pacing, nutrition, mindset, and how to make your training translate into results on race day. Whether it’s your first race or your tenth, nailing the details makes all the difference.
Shoutouts and What’s Ahead
A special shoutout to everyone racing across the country. Boston Marathon was this week, and while we may not have had an EN athlete on the course this year, the energy of the season is still strong. From 300-mile ultra events to off-road epics like Unbound, our team is embracing challenges across the board.
Yes, I’ll be joining the Unbound crew in June—mud, chaos, and all. And yes, training while juggling a full schedule (and resisting Easter jellybeans) is still a work in progress.
Connect With the Team
Don’t forget: office hours are still rolling every Monday night (Panera edition) and Wednesday mid-day. Got questions? Reach out in Geneva or shoot me a DM. Whether you’re chasing a podium or just trying to stay consistent, I’m here to help.
Let’s keep pushing. Train smart, stay connected, and remember—there’s no such thing as the “perfect” week, only progress.
