.svg){kind=icon}
Don't Drink and Drive
Racing Against Unexpected Hurdles
Auckland, New Zealand, a place where public transport is not the most reliable and people are therefore often tempted by the comfort of their own car after a night out. In order to help prevent drink drivers the police would put measures in place to catch those abusing the use of their car after a drink or two.
Ok, where is this going? Had I been on a night out before a race? Nope! Quite the opposite actually. I had eaten my pasta, chicken, and veg, hydrated and was asleep by 9pm. Standard. My partner, Jack, and I had a 10km on the Saturday morning, and we left the house in a bit of made flurry to make sure we were on the road in time. Prior to leaving home we did all the normal things you would do in the morning. We had coffee, breakfast, brushed our teeth, rinsed with mouthwash etc., and we were on our way.
The highway entrance was approx. a 3-minute drive from our house, and we noticed some flashing lights up ahead. I remember thinking “great, we really have time for a breathalyser test right now!” It was not what we needed that morning! Jack was driving, and wound down the window with a smile. We were sat there with our numbers pinned on our shirts; all race ready; clearly not driving home from a night out!
It actually blew my mind when Jack then tested positive for alcohol in his system. The officer was almost as shocked as us. Then started questioning how much he drank last night. We started racking our brains thinking about when the last time was that he had a beer, and if it could still be in his system. The officer said he needed to test again, but if it was positive, he would need to have his rights read to him, and be taken to the station for the offence drink driving. We agreed to test again, as there was no way that a beer a week ago was affecting his driving or judgement. Yep, positive!
I was a bit concerned that Jack was being taken to the police station, but also pretty pissed that we were now running really late for the race. Priorities!! Part of me thought, “ah I could race, and then go and pick him up!” I started to climb over to the driver's seat, and the police officer questioned what I was doing. I mean, it was my car too, I wasn’t going to just leave it on the side of the highway. However, apparently, as I had been “caught” as a passenger with a driver who was “drink driving”, he needed to breathalyse me before I could drive off. Yep, positive! WHAT WAS GOING ON?! We semi started arguing with the officer, saying that the machine must be broken, but let’s face it, they have probably heard that from thousands of drunk idiots!
So, Jack was about to be taken to the police station, I was one positive test away from joining him, the police were threatening to take our car away, it became clear that this race was not happening today.
Whilst the officer was resetting the breathalyser test, I had drink of water. It then dawned on me that I still had that mouthwash taste…. Surely it couldn’t be the mouthwash?! I drank loads of water and rinsed my mouth, and then re-tested. Negative. Sadly, Jack wasn’t allowed to re-test until he got to the police station.
So, in conclusion, there were no PBs that morning, but also no criminal charges. Luckily Jack was able to sober up from his dental hygiene routine whilst in the station.
Moral of the story, control the “controllables”, give yourself enough time on race morning, and buy alcohol free mouthwash!
GYMNASTICS
This Tuesday, we’re focusing on handstands and handstand walks! We’ll start with strength work before moving on to balance and control while upside down, beginning from the box and progressing to the wall and beyond.
Thursday, we’re heading back to the bar for another round of Bar Muscle Ups! Whether you're chasing your first rep or fine-tuning your technique for cleaner, stronger sets, we’ve got you covered with progressions, modifications, and strength drills to help you level up. Let's go!
HYBRID FITNESS
This week's HYBRID Fitness session focuses on running intervals and then some compromised running, getting used to pushing into the run after some taxing work.
MOBILITY
Unlock better depth, posture, and comfort in your front squats with this focused mobility class. We’ll target key areas, such as the ankles, hips, thoracic spine, and shoulders, to improve your squat mechanics and front rack position. Whether you’re new to squatting or looking to break through a plateau, this class will help you move more efficiently and squat with confidence. Suitable for all levels.
WEIGHTLIFTING
Weightlifting this week is snatch. Working on the power snatch. Technique work, then a complex of snatch pull + 2 power snatch. Finishing with some heavy back squats.
The Monday Ride
Our community program is delivered via TrainingPeaks for AED 750 p/month. If you're interested to have a plan to follow, email tw@innerfight.com
Time: 05:59 am
Session Length: 1 hour
Location: The Loop Cafe, Nad al Sheeba
Track Tuesday
Our weekly on track speed session! For any level of runner looking to build their run speed, threshold and Vo2max fitness and run with the best running community in Dubai.
Time: 05:59 am
Session Length: 1 hour
Location: Dubai Sports City Sports Park
Wednesday - Indoor Ride
Our community program is delivered via TrainingPeaks for AED 750 p/month. If you're interested to have a plan to follow, email tw@innerfight.com
Thursday - Endurance Strength
A strength class focused on key movements for endurance athletes to help avoid injury, build speed and develop strength.
Time: 06:30am
Location: This is a paid class session at InnerFight HQ. If you're interested to join, email winning@innerfight.com
Friday - Coffee Run
Our weekly tempo run. Sessions are built on an RPE scale and accessible to all levels of runner. We start together, run hard then finish together and chat about it over a coffee and breakfast.
Brief time: 05:54 am
Start time: 05:59 am
Start Location: Common Grounds
Saturday - Long Ride
Our weekly endurance ride. This ride always begins with 18 - 20km at 30kph before a longer segment with various formats. Expect the main group to ride around 34kph, slower groups will break off and form. Anyone is welcome to join.
Time: 04:59 am
Location: Bottom of the Stick, Al Qudra.
Sunday - Long Run
A run where we start and finish together. Up to 2hrs long depending on people needs.
If you're interested to join, reach out to Dan Bagley, db@innerfight.com
Time: 05:29 am
Location: Common Grounds
Monday
Session: No in-person session
There is no in person LRC session today, Unlimited Clients, there is a session in your TrainingPeaks still. Enjoy!
Tuesday
Time: 5:59am
Location: Dubai Sports City Sports Park
Session: Track Tuesday
This is your chance to run fast with the wider IFE community and coaches. Come ready to run fast and have fun.
Wednesday
Time: 5:59am & 5:59pm
Location: InnerFight
Session: LRC Intervals
Today we will be running intervals in the park. 100m on/100m recovery.
Friday
Time: 5:59am & 5:59pm
Location: Common Grounds
Session: The Coffee Run + LRC Training Camp
This week re will be cycling through the below seqeunce:
10X
2mins @ 7PRE
1min @ 8RPE
1min @ recovery
The evening session on the LRC Training Camp will be a chilled shake out run from the hotel.
Saturday
Time: 5:29am
Session: LRC Training Camp
We have an action packed day on the LRC Training Camp, all details will be shared in WA.
Sunday
Time: 5:29am
Location: Common Grounds
Session: Long Run + LRC Training Camp
Today we will host a community long run from Common Grounds for those who are still in Dubai.
Those on the training camp in KhorFakkan we will hike at 5:29am.
Monday:
Strength:
A) 1 min max set strict pull-ups
B) EMOM x 8 Pull ups @ 30% of max set
Conditioning:
Every 5 mins x 6
2 rounds
6 Alt Single Arm Manmaker
300/250m row
Tuesday:
Strength:
A) Every 75 sec x 9
1) 16 Alt goblet cossack squat
2) 40 sec alt single leg V-ups
3) 30 sec side plank E/S
B) Every 2 mins x 6 - 3 front squat @20x1
Conditioning:
30-20-10
Assault Bike
Rest 2 minutes after each set
Wednesday:
Strength:
Deadlift Every 2:00 x 5 - 2 reps
Conditioning:
AMRAP 22
In a team of 4
2000m C2 Bike
40 Power cleans (70/45)
40 TTB
Thursday:
Strength:
A) Every 90 sec x 8 - 10 DB box step up
B) Every 2 mins x 5 - 8 Alternating Barbell Reverse Lunges
C) EMOM x 8 - M1: 20 sec Nordic Hold / M2: 30 sec Ring rows
Conditioning:
500/450 ski
5 burpee pull-ups
400/350 ski
5 burpee pull-ups
300/250 ski
5 burpee pull-ups
200/150 ski
5 burpee pull-ups
100/50 ski
Friday:
Strength:
A) Every 75 sec x 8 1 push press (1 sec pause in dip)
Conditioning:
0-16 mins
2500m/2000m row
Every 2 mins - 6 box jump overs
16-26 mins
1500m/1200m row
Every 2 mins - 6 Dual KB Front squat
26-32 mins
1000m/800m row
Every 2 mins - 6 Dual KB STOH
Auckland, New Zealand, a place where public transport is not the most reliable and people are therefore often tempted by the comfort of their own car after a night out. In order to help prevent drink drivers the police would put measures in place to catch those abusing the use of their car after a drink or two.
Ok, where is this going? Had I been on a night out before a race? Nope! Quite the opposite actually. I had eaten my pasta, chicken, and veg, hydrated and was asleep by 9pm. Standard. My partner, Jack, and I had a 10km on the Saturday morning, and we left the house in a bit of made flurry to make sure we were on the road in time. Prior to leaving home we did all the normal things you would do in the morning. We had coffee, breakfast, brushed our teeth, rinsed with mouthwash etc., and we were on our way.
The highway entrance was approx. a 3-minute drive from our house, and we noticed some flashing lights up ahead. I remember thinking “great, we really have time for a breathalyser test right now!” It was not what we needed that morning! Jack was driving, and wound down the window with a smile. We were sat there with our numbers pinned on our shirts; all race ready; clearly not driving home from a night out!
It actually blew my mind when Jack then tested positive for alcohol in his system. The officer was almost as shocked as us. Then started questioning how much he drank last night. We started racking our brains thinking about when the last time was that he had a beer, and if it could still be in his system. The officer said he needed to test again, but if it was positive, he would need to have his rights read to him, and be taken to the station for the offence drink driving. We agreed to test again, as there was no way that a beer a week ago was affecting his driving or judgement. Yep, positive!
I was a bit concerned that Jack was being taken to the police station, but also pretty pissed that we were now running really late for the race. Priorities!! Part of me thought, “ah I could race, and then go and pick him up!” I started to climb over to the driver's seat, and the police officer questioned what I was doing. I mean, it was my car too, I wasn’t going to just leave it on the side of the highway. However, apparently, as I had been “caught” as a passenger with a driver who was “drink driving”, he needed to breathalyse me before I could drive off. Yep, positive! WHAT WAS GOING ON?! We semi started arguing with the officer, saying that the machine must be broken, but let’s face it, they have probably heard that from thousands of drunk idiots!
So, Jack was about to be taken to the police station, I was one positive test away from joining him, the police were threatening to take our car away, it became clear that this race was not happening today.
Whilst the officer was resetting the breathalyser test, I had drink of water. It then dawned on me that I still had that mouthwash taste…. Surely it couldn’t be the mouthwash?! I drank loads of water and rinsed my mouth, and then re-tested. Negative. Sadly, Jack wasn’t allowed to re-test until he got to the police station.
So, in conclusion, there were no PBs that morning, but also no criminal charges. Luckily Jack was able to sober up from his dental hygiene routine whilst in the station.
Moral of the story, control the “controllables”, give yourself enough time on race morning, and buy alcohol free mouthwash!
The Monday Ride
Our community program is delivered via TrainingPeaks for AED 750 p/month. If you're interested to have a plan to follow, email tw@innerfight.com
Time: 05:59 am
Session Length: 1 hour
Location: The Loop Cafe, Nad al Sheeba
Track Tuesday
Our weekly on track speed session! For any level of runner looking to build their run speed, threshold and Vo2max fitness and run with the best running community in Dubai.
Time: 05:59 am
Session Length: 1 hour
Location: Dubai Sports City Sports Park
Wednesday - Indoor Ride
Our community program is delivered via TrainingPeaks for AED 750 p/month. If you're interested to have a plan to follow, email tw@innerfight.com
Thursday - Endurance Strength
A strength class focused on key movements for endurance athletes to help avoid injury, build speed and develop strength.
Time: 06:30am
Location: This is a paid class session at InnerFight HQ. If you're interested to join, email winning@innerfight.com
Friday - Coffee Run
Our weekly tempo run. Sessions are built on an RPE scale and accessible to all levels of runner. We start together, run hard then finish together and chat about it over a coffee and breakfast.
Brief time: 05:54 am
Start time: 05:59 am
Start Location: Common Grounds
Saturday - Long Ride
Our weekly endurance ride. This ride always begins with 18 - 20km at 30kph before a longer segment with various formats. Expect the main group to ride around 34kph, slower groups will break off and form. Anyone is welcome to join.
Time: 04:59 am
Location: Bottom of the Stick, Al Qudra.
Sunday - Long Run
A run where we start and finish together. Up to 2hrs long depending on people needs.
If you're interested to join, reach out to Dan Bagley, db@innerfight.com
Time: 05:29 am
Location: Common Grounds
Monday
Session: No in-person session
There is no in person LRC session today, Unlimited Clients, there is a session in your TrainingPeaks still. Enjoy!
Tuesday
Time: 5:59am
Location: Dubai Sports City Sports Park
Session: Track Tuesday
This is your chance to run fast with the wider IFE community and coaches. Come ready to run fast and have fun.
Wednesday
Time: 5:59am & 5:59pm
Location: InnerFight
Session: LRC Intervals
Today we will be running intervals in the park. 100m on/100m recovery.
Friday
Time: 5:59am & 5:59pm
Location: Common Grounds
Session: The Coffee Run + LRC Training Camp
This week re will be cycling through the below seqeunce:
10X
2mins @ 7PRE
1min @ 8RPE
1min @ recovery
The evening session on the LRC Training Camp will be a chilled shake out run from the hotel.
Saturday
Time: 5:29am
Session: LRC Training Camp
We have an action packed day on the LRC Training Camp, all details will be shared in WA.
Sunday
Time: 5:29am
Location: Common Grounds
Session: Long Run + LRC Training Camp
Today we will host a community long run from Common Grounds for those who are still in Dubai.
Those on the training camp in KhorFakkan we will hike at 5:29am.
Monday:
Strength:
A) 1 min max set strict pull-ups
B) EMOM x 8 Pull ups @ 30% of max set
Conditioning:
Every 5 mins x 6
2 rounds
6 Alt Single Arm Manmaker
300/250m row
Tuesday:
Strength:
A) Every 75 sec x 9
1) 16 Alt goblet cossack squat
2) 40 sec alt single leg V-ups
3) 30 sec side plank E/S
B) Every 2 mins x 6 - 3 front squat @20x1
Conditioning:
30-20-10
Assault Bike
Rest 2 minutes after each set
Wednesday:
Strength:
Deadlift Every 2:00 x 5 - 2 reps
Conditioning:
AMRAP 22
In a team of 4
2000m C2 Bike
40 Power cleans (70/45)
40 TTB
Thursday:
Strength:
A) Every 90 sec x 8 - 10 DB box step up
B) Every 2 mins x 5 - 8 Alternating Barbell Reverse Lunges
C) EMOM x 8 - M1: 20 sec Nordic Hold / M2: 30 sec Ring rows
Conditioning:
500/450 ski
5 burpee pull-ups
400/350 ski
5 burpee pull-ups
300/250 ski
5 burpee pull-ups
200/150 ski
5 burpee pull-ups
100/50 ski
Friday:
Strength:
A) Every 75 sec x 8 1 push press (1 sec pause in dip)
Conditioning:
0-16 mins
2500m/2000m row
Every 2 mins - 6 box jump overs
16-26 mins
1500m/1200m row
Every 2 mins - 6 Dual KB Front squat
26-32 mins
1000m/800m row
Every 2 mins - 6 Dual KB STOH
GYMNASTICS
This Tuesday, we’re focusing on handstands and handstand walks! We’ll start with strength work before moving on to balance and control while upside down, beginning from the box and progressing to the wall and beyond.
Thursday, we’re heading back to the bar for another round of Bar Muscle Ups! Whether you're chasing your first rep or fine-tuning your technique for cleaner, stronger sets, we’ve got you covered with progressions, modifications, and strength drills to help you level up. Let's go!
HYBRID FITNESS
This week's HYBRID Fitness session focuses on running intervals and then some compromised running, getting used to pushing into the run after some taxing work.
MOBILITY
Unlock better depth, posture, and comfort in your front squats with this focused mobility class. We’ll target key areas, such as the ankles, hips, thoracic spine, and shoulders, to improve your squat mechanics and front rack position. Whether you’re new to squatting or looking to break through a plateau, this class will help you move more efficiently and squat with confidence. Suitable for all levels.
WEIGHTLIFTING
Weightlifting this week is snatch. Working on the power snatch. Technique work, then a complex of snatch pull + 2 power snatch. Finishing with some heavy back squats.
Auckland, New Zealand, a place where public transport is not the most reliable and people are therefore often tempted by the comfort of their own car after a night out. In order to help prevent drink drivers the police would put measures in place to catch those abusing the use of their car after a drink or two.
Ok, where is this going? Had I been on a night out before a race? Nope! Quite the opposite actually. I had eaten my pasta, chicken, and veg, hydrated and was asleep by 9pm. Standard. My partner, Jack, and I had a 10km on the Saturday morning, and we left the house in a bit of made flurry to make sure we were on the road in time. Prior to leaving home we did all the normal things you would do in the morning. We had coffee, breakfast, brushed our teeth, rinsed with mouthwash etc., and we were on our way.
The highway entrance was approx. a 3-minute drive from our house, and we noticed some flashing lights up ahead. I remember thinking “great, we really have time for a breathalyser test right now!” It was not what we needed that morning! Jack was driving, and wound down the window with a smile. We were sat there with our numbers pinned on our shirts; all race ready; clearly not driving home from a night out!
It actually blew my mind when Jack then tested positive for alcohol in his system. The officer was almost as shocked as us. Then started questioning how much he drank last night. We started racking our brains thinking about when the last time was that he had a beer, and if it could still be in his system. The officer said he needed to test again, but if it was positive, he would need to have his rights read to him, and be taken to the station for the offence drink driving. We agreed to test again, as there was no way that a beer a week ago was affecting his driving or judgement. Yep, positive!
I was a bit concerned that Jack was being taken to the police station, but also pretty pissed that we were now running really late for the race. Priorities!! Part of me thought, “ah I could race, and then go and pick him up!” I started to climb over to the driver's seat, and the police officer questioned what I was doing. I mean, it was my car too, I wasn’t going to just leave it on the side of the highway. However, apparently, as I had been “caught” as a passenger with a driver who was “drink driving”, he needed to breathalyse me before I could drive off. Yep, positive! WHAT WAS GOING ON?! We semi started arguing with the officer, saying that the machine must be broken, but let’s face it, they have probably heard that from thousands of drunk idiots!
So, Jack was about to be taken to the police station, I was one positive test away from joining him, the police were threatening to take our car away, it became clear that this race was not happening today.
Whilst the officer was resetting the breathalyser test, I had drink of water. It then dawned on me that I still had that mouthwash taste…. Surely it couldn’t be the mouthwash?! I drank loads of water and rinsed my mouth, and then re-tested. Negative. Sadly, Jack wasn’t allowed to re-test until he got to the police station.
So, in conclusion, there were no PBs that morning, but also no criminal charges. Luckily Jack was able to sober up from his dental hygiene routine whilst in the station.
Moral of the story, control the “controllables”, give yourself enough time on race morning, and buy alcohol free mouthwash!
Monday
Session: No in-person session
There is no in person LRC session today, Unlimited Clients, there is a session in your TrainingPeaks still. Enjoy!
Tuesday
Time: 5:59am
Location: Dubai Sports City Sports Park
Session: Track Tuesday
This is your chance to run fast with the wider IFE community and coaches. Come ready to run fast and have fun.
Wednesday
Time: 5:59am & 5:59pm
Location: InnerFight
Session: LRC Intervals
Today we will be running intervals in the park. 100m on/100m recovery.
Friday
Time: 5:59am & 5:59pm
Location: Common Grounds
Session: The Coffee Run + LRC Training Camp
This week re will be cycling through the below seqeunce:
10X
2mins @ 7PRE
1min @ 8RPE
1min @ recovery
The evening session on the LRC Training Camp will be a chilled shake out run from the hotel.
Saturday
Time: 5:29am
Session: LRC Training Camp
We have an action packed day on the LRC Training Camp, all details will be shared in WA.
Sunday
Time: 5:29am
Location: Common Grounds
Session: Long Run + LRC Training Camp
Today we will host a community long run from Common Grounds for those who are still in Dubai.
Those on the training camp in KhorFakkan we will hike at 5:29am.
Monday:
Strength:
A) 1 min max set strict pull-ups
B) EMOM x 8 Pull ups @ 30% of max set
Conditioning:
Every 5 mins x 6
2 rounds
6 Alt Single Arm Manmaker
300/250m row
Tuesday:
Strength:
A) Every 75 sec x 9
1) 16 Alt goblet cossack squat
2) 40 sec alt single leg V-ups
3) 30 sec side plank E/S
B) Every 2 mins x 6 - 3 front squat @20x1
Conditioning:
30-20-10
Assault Bike
Rest 2 minutes after each set
Wednesday:
Strength:
Deadlift Every 2:00 x 5 - 2 reps
Conditioning:
AMRAP 22
In a team of 4
2000m C2 Bike
40 Power cleans (70/45)
40 TTB
Thursday:
Strength:
A) Every 90 sec x 8 - 10 DB box step up
B) Every 2 mins x 5 - 8 Alternating Barbell Reverse Lunges
C) EMOM x 8 - M1: 20 sec Nordic Hold / M2: 30 sec Ring rows
Conditioning:
500/450 ski
5 burpee pull-ups
400/350 ski
5 burpee pull-ups
300/250 ski
5 burpee pull-ups
200/150 ski
5 burpee pull-ups
100/50 ski
Friday:
Strength:
A) Every 75 sec x 8 1 push press (1 sec pause in dip)
Conditioning:
0-16 mins
2500m/2000m row
Every 2 mins - 6 box jump overs
16-26 mins
1500m/1200m row
Every 2 mins - 6 Dual KB Front squat
26-32 mins
1000m/800m row
Every 2 mins - 6 Dual KB STOH
GYMNASTICS
This Tuesday, we’re focusing on handstands and handstand walks! We’ll start with strength work before moving on to balance and control while upside down, beginning from the box and progressing to the wall and beyond.
Thursday, we’re heading back to the bar for another round of Bar Muscle Ups! Whether you're chasing your first rep or fine-tuning your technique for cleaner, stronger sets, we’ve got you covered with progressions, modifications, and strength drills to help you level up. Let's go!
HYBRID FITNESS
This week's HYBRID Fitness session focuses on running intervals and then some compromised running, getting used to pushing into the run after some taxing work.
MOBILITY
Unlock better depth, posture, and comfort in your front squats with this focused mobility class. We’ll target key areas, such as the ankles, hips, thoracic spine, and shoulders, to improve your squat mechanics and front rack position. Whether you’re new to squatting or looking to break through a plateau, this class will help you move more efficiently and squat with confidence. Suitable for all levels.
WEIGHTLIFTING
Weightlifting this week is snatch. Working on the power snatch. Technique work, then a complex of snatch pull + 2 power snatch. Finishing with some heavy back squats.
The Monday Ride
Our community program is delivered via TrainingPeaks for AED 750 p/month. If you're interested to have a plan to follow, email tw@innerfight.com
Time: 05:59 am
Session Length: 1 hour
Location: The Loop Cafe, Nad al Sheeba
Track Tuesday
Our weekly on track speed session! For any level of runner looking to build their run speed, threshold and Vo2max fitness and run with the best running community in Dubai.
Time: 05:59 am
Session Length: 1 hour
Location: Dubai Sports City Sports Park
Wednesday - Indoor Ride
Our community program is delivered via TrainingPeaks for AED 750 p/month. If you're interested to have a plan to follow, email tw@innerfight.com
Thursday - Endurance Strength
A strength class focused on key movements for endurance athletes to help avoid injury, build speed and develop strength.
Time: 06:30am
Location: This is a paid class session at InnerFight HQ. If you're interested to join, email winning@innerfight.com
Friday - Coffee Run
Our weekly tempo run. Sessions are built on an RPE scale and accessible to all levels of runner. We start together, run hard then finish together and chat about it over a coffee and breakfast.
Brief time: 05:54 am
Start time: 05:59 am
Start Location: Common Grounds
Saturday - Long Ride
Our weekly endurance ride. This ride always begins with 18 - 20km at 30kph before a longer segment with various formats. Expect the main group to ride around 34kph, slower groups will break off and form. Anyone is welcome to join.
Time: 04:59 am
Location: Bottom of the Stick, Al Qudra.
Sunday - Long Run
A run where we start and finish together. Up to 2hrs long depending on people needs.
If you're interested to join, reach out to Dan Bagley, db@innerfight.com
Time: 05:29 am
Location: Common Grounds
Auckland, New Zealand, a place where public transport is not the most reliable and people are therefore often tempted by the comfort of their own car after a night out. In order to help prevent drink drivers the police would put measures in place to catch those abusing the use of their car after a drink or two.
Ok, where is this going? Had I been on a night out before a race? Nope! Quite the opposite actually. I had eaten my pasta, chicken, and veg, hydrated and was asleep by 9pm. Standard. My partner, Jack, and I had a 10km on the Saturday morning, and we left the house in a bit of made flurry to make sure we were on the road in time. Prior to leaving home we did all the normal things you would do in the morning. We had coffee, breakfast, brushed our teeth, rinsed with mouthwash etc., and we were on our way.
The highway entrance was approx. a 3-minute drive from our house, and we noticed some flashing lights up ahead. I remember thinking “great, we really have time for a breathalyser test right now!” It was not what we needed that morning! Jack was driving, and wound down the window with a smile. We were sat there with our numbers pinned on our shirts; all race ready; clearly not driving home from a night out!
It actually blew my mind when Jack then tested positive for alcohol in his system. The officer was almost as shocked as us. Then started questioning how much he drank last night. We started racking our brains thinking about when the last time was that he had a beer, and if it could still be in his system. The officer said he needed to test again, but if it was positive, he would need to have his rights read to him, and be taken to the station for the offence drink driving. We agreed to test again, as there was no way that a beer a week ago was affecting his driving or judgement. Yep, positive!
I was a bit concerned that Jack was being taken to the police station, but also pretty pissed that we were now running really late for the race. Priorities!! Part of me thought, “ah I could race, and then go and pick him up!” I started to climb over to the driver's seat, and the police officer questioned what I was doing. I mean, it was my car too, I wasn’t going to just leave it on the side of the highway. However, apparently, as I had been “caught” as a passenger with a driver who was “drink driving”, he needed to breathalyse me before I could drive off. Yep, positive! WHAT WAS GOING ON?! We semi started arguing with the officer, saying that the machine must be broken, but let’s face it, they have probably heard that from thousands of drunk idiots!
So, Jack was about to be taken to the police station, I was one positive test away from joining him, the police were threatening to take our car away, it became clear that this race was not happening today.
Whilst the officer was resetting the breathalyser test, I had drink of water. It then dawned on me that I still had that mouthwash taste…. Surely it couldn’t be the mouthwash?! I drank loads of water and rinsed my mouth, and then re-tested. Negative. Sadly, Jack wasn’t allowed to re-test until he got to the police station.
So, in conclusion, there were no PBs that morning, but also no criminal charges. Luckily Jack was able to sober up from his dental hygiene routine whilst in the station.
Moral of the story, control the “controllables”, give yourself enough time on race morning, and buy alcohol free mouthwash!
Auckland, New Zealand, a place where public transport is not the most reliable and people are therefore often tempted by the comfort of their own car after a night out. In order to help prevent drink drivers the police would put measures in place to catch those abusing the use of their car after a drink or two.
Ok, where is this going? Had I been on a night out before a race? Nope! Quite the opposite actually. I had eaten my pasta, chicken, and veg, hydrated and was asleep by 9pm. Standard. My partner, Jack, and I had a 10km on the Saturday morning, and we left the house in a bit of made flurry to make sure we were on the road in time. Prior to leaving home we did all the normal things you would do in the morning. We had coffee, breakfast, brushed our teeth, rinsed with mouthwash etc., and we were on our way.
The highway entrance was approx. a 3-minute drive from our house, and we noticed some flashing lights up ahead. I remember thinking “great, we really have time for a breathalyser test right now!” It was not what we needed that morning! Jack was driving, and wound down the window with a smile. We were sat there with our numbers pinned on our shirts; all race ready; clearly not driving home from a night out!
It actually blew my mind when Jack then tested positive for alcohol in his system. The officer was almost as shocked as us. Then started questioning how much he drank last night. We started racking our brains thinking about when the last time was that he had a beer, and if it could still be in his system. The officer said he needed to test again, but if it was positive, he would need to have his rights read to him, and be taken to the station for the offence drink driving. We agreed to test again, as there was no way that a beer a week ago was affecting his driving or judgement. Yep, positive!
I was a bit concerned that Jack was being taken to the police station, but also pretty pissed that we were now running really late for the race. Priorities!! Part of me thought, “ah I could race, and then go and pick him up!” I started to climb over to the driver's seat, and the police officer questioned what I was doing. I mean, it was my car too, I wasn’t going to just leave it on the side of the highway. However, apparently, as I had been “caught” as a passenger with a driver who was “drink driving”, he needed to breathalyse me before I could drive off. Yep, positive! WHAT WAS GOING ON?! We semi started arguing with the officer, saying that the machine must be broken, but let’s face it, they have probably heard that from thousands of drunk idiots!
So, Jack was about to be taken to the police station, I was one positive test away from joining him, the police were threatening to take our car away, it became clear that this race was not happening today.
Whilst the officer was resetting the breathalyser test, I had drink of water. It then dawned on me that I still had that mouthwash taste…. Surely it couldn’t be the mouthwash?! I drank loads of water and rinsed my mouth, and then re-tested. Negative. Sadly, Jack wasn’t allowed to re-test until he got to the police station.
So, in conclusion, there were no PBs that morning, but also no criminal charges. Luckily Jack was able to sober up from his dental hygiene routine whilst in the station.
Moral of the story, control the “controllables”, give yourself enough time on race morning, and buy alcohol free mouthwash!
One-Hour Workout: Revving Your Swim Engine
.jpg)
.jpg)
.png)
.jpg)
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
