BLAIK OGLE

I started working with Rhonnda Cloinger in June of 2013. I had completed three marathons using reputable plans I found online and had been successful at completing the distance. I decided to go for my lifelong dream of completing a full ironman triathlon of 140.6 miles (2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike, 26.2 mile run). I knew I needed guidance and support above and beyond what I could find online, well, because I had never done a triathlon. I was a BASIC swimmer and novice on the bike... and completely overwhelmed, yet determined. Rhonnda took me under her wing and within four months of training I went from complete newbie to a long distance triathlete, completing a 70.3 mile half ironman and signing up for my first full ironman next year. Rhonnda trained me in EVERY aspect of the sport: she taught me all the basics of swim, bike, and run; cross-training and physical fitness outside of the three disciplines, coached me on nutrition, and most importantly provided me with moral/mental support. Her plan was based off my abilities, not just some random buildup to half ironman distance. Her plans are very methodical and based off your individual physiology, making the training SAFE while providing the most efficient and effective formula for growth. While training for the half ironman she incorporated training for the Marine Corps Marathon, a month after my first half ironman. She has always been available when I needed her, took her time to explain, comfort, and encourage me when I needed it. She pushed me when it was time to push, and pulled me back when I started going off the rails. Never once did she cause me to remotely question her knowledge or advice. She is a lady of outstanding integrity and character, instilling the best in everyone around her. She taught me what it means to be a triathlete. She was there from start to finish, every step of the way, every race. There is not one aspect of the sport that I feel I do not understand or was unprepared to handle on race day. When my goal race of the season came I knew I would finish, but what happened on race day blew all my expectations away.. and was repeated again a month later at my 4th marathon. Every promise she made came true.

Prior to having Rhonnda as a coach my race experiences always ended with regret in some form or another. I was happy to finish, yet wishing I had done something differently. I was either over-trained or under prepared. With Rhonnda that changed. I had the best experience ever in my goal races under her guidance. I started both with excitement and confidence. I had the abilities to go the distance and the mental toughness to handle anything that came my way. There were no regrets when I crossed the finish line; just complete joy that I had owned every moment, start to finish. I knew having a coach was the way to go, however I never imagined I would grow as much as I did, both as a person and as an athlete. I will continue to train with Rhonnda throughout my pursuit of the full distance ironman. It is the best investment I have ever made and I cannot thank Rhonnda Cloinger and Bobby Holcombe enough for what they have given me.