Any triathletes here?

[Wanger]

I'll be running my first triathlon this weekend, the Lifetime Fittness Tri here in the Twin Cities. I'm doing the sprint version. Did a trial run last Friday with my brother and that calmed some of my concerns.

Anyone have any advice who has done one?

[Mugen910]

best of luck to ya...I would love to do one someday.

[Scottw]

Open, Chug and Crush are the only triathletics I have accomplished in the recent past. I wish you all the best!

[dunng]

Smoke, drink, eat... Good luck to you though! :tu

[taltos]

I have started with the belch, scratch and fart events. Best of luck.:tu

[tobii3]

Last one I entered was the Wildflower Triathlon.....back in 1989...:D

[ahc4353]

Last one I entered was the Wildflower Triathlon.....back in 1889...:D

Fixed it for ya :tu

[Mugen910]

I'll be running my first triathlon this weekend, the Lifetime Fittness Tri here in the Twin Cities. I'm doing the sprint version. Did a trial run last Friday with my brother and that calmed some of my concerns.

Anyone have any advice who has done one?

keeping this on topic. I would say just trust your training and try to keep your composure when you hit the water. It'll look crazy but just find your place behind another swimmer and glide in their slip stream. I suppose since this will be your first, just worry about finishing :tu

[St. Lou Stu]

keeping this on topic. I would say just trust your training and try to keep your composure when you hit the water. It'll look crazy but just find your place behind another swimmer and glide in their slip stream. I suppose since this will be your first, just worry about finishing :tu

More comforting words have never been spoken Bao.

[SeanGAR]

Triathelete ... eating, smoking and drinking?

[Noodles]

keeping this on topic. I would say just trust your training and try to keep your composure when you hit the water. It'll look crazy but just find your place behind another swimmer and glide in their slip stream. I suppose since this will be your first, just worry about finishing :tu

Best advice so far.

He will finish, it's a sprint triathlon not an Ironman.

[hotreds]

Triathelete ... eating, smoking and drinking?

That's what I thought, too! Great minds think alike, I guess!

[WyGuy]

I'll actually be helping out up there Thursday and Friday, though I won't be competing.

Anyways good luck!

[Wanger]

I'll actually be helping out up there Thursday and Friday, though I won't be competing.

Anyways good luck!

Cool. Get my info packet with my exact start time on Friday.

Good advice to trust my training. I've been working towards this since January, and feel I'm right where I need to be physically. The key will be getting through the swim. Since it won't be a mass start, it'll be a bit less chaotic. I'm getting pretty stoked about it since the trial run my bro and I did last Friday.

And for the record, I won't be wearing the mankini. :p

[Opusfxd]

Good luck! I was supposed to do one next weekend but work the last few months has hosed my training so instead of doing two or three this year I'll end up with one in September.

It's been said, trust your training. Do the race at the pace you know you can and don't go out too fast and end up walking the run. Get there early and lay out your stuff so you don't have to think in T1 and T2. Make sure your helmet is fastened on your head before you touch your bike. Make sure you don't get busted drafting.

Most importantly that makes a pleasant race for me - thank the volunteers pointing the way as well as the cop stopping traffic for you as you blow past them at warp speed. I think they appreciate it. Remember to smile and offer support to your fellow racers. Oh yeah, have fun!

Good luck! You'll be more than fine.

[Mugen910]

Best advice so far.

He will finish, it's a sprint triathlon not an Ironman.

good point...just start the swim slow then..and try not to get caught up in the energy of the competition...you'll burn out to fast..but I'm sure you'll do fine..pics will be required please.

[Wanger]

good point...just start the swim slow then..and try not to get caught up in the energy of the competition...you'll burn out to fast..but I'm sure you'll do fine..pics will be required please.

I know that Erin will be there with the camera. Hopefully my dad will get a few as well, from a different vantage point, and then one of the other supervisors here at work lives on the bike route, so I know there will be some to post. :D

I'm getting so stoked for this as it gets closer. :D

[JE3146]

Cool. Get my info packet with my exact start time on Friday.

Good advice to trust my training. I've been working towards this since January, and feel I'm right where I need to be physically. The key will be getting through the swim. Since it won't be a mass start, it'll be a bit less chaotic. I'm getting pretty stoked about it since the trial run my bro and I did last Friday.

And for the record, I won't be wearing the mankini. :p


BOOOOOOO!!!! :r

[gorob23]

Last one I entered was the Wildflower Triathlon.....back in 1989...:D

:tpd:That was my first real Tri but not my last! Great course, what a butt kicker.
If you can do the training you can do the event:tu

Rob

[Wanger]

Got all signed in today and I'd ready to go. :) My start time will be in the vicinity of 8:50 AM CST tomorrow, and I anticipate on finishing in 1:45 or less. :)

[Wanger]

My unofficial time was 1hr 39min 35sec. The wife forgot the camera, but there are a few pics I'll post at some point in the near future! Damn that was great, but the swim SUCKED!

[JE3146]

My unofficial time was 1hr 39min 35sec. The wife forgot the camera, but there are a few pics I'll post at some point in the near future! Damn that was great, but the swim SUCKED!

It's cus you weren't wearing the 'kini!

:D


Congrats my friend! Hell of an accomplishment!

[BigFrank]

shoot slowtriathlete a pm

[Opusfxd]

Great job!

[Wanger]

It'm Monday and I'm a little sore, but not too bad. Still debating on whether or not I will do the Chisago Lakes sprint tri on July 26th. I loved finishing this race.

The swim sucked. I gulped more water than I had hoped to, so I had to make a few pit stops there, adn then it didn't help that my goggles kept fogging up, even with anti-fog on them. :( But I got through it, and that was the main thing. 17 minutes in the water for .04 miles. Could have done better, but I'll take it.

Transition 1 was simple recovery from the water. Get the wetsuit off (helped for buoyancy) and get to the bike. It was a bit difficult to get the shoes on, but I eventually did it and got moving on the bike. The bike was fairly clear sailing. I passed more people than I got passed by, so I was pretty comfortable with that. 50 minutes on the bike for 15 miles (I'm no Lance Armstrong!).

Transition 2 was easier. Rack the bike, drop the helmet and get to the running route. That was a quick change and went well. I was able to recover some strength while on the bike after the swim. On the run, I went at a pace that was working for me. 26:19 sec for the 3 mile run. As I got closer to the finish line, the crowd was thickening up a bit, and the cheers for everyone finishing was great. It helped to urge me on, and as I knew I was getting closer, my pace picked up. When I saw the timer at the finish line, I gave it everything had left. It wasn't until later when we went to get our times at the results booth that I knew how well I did. Official time 1hr 39min 35.1sec. I'm pleased with the result. Now to only improve my swim and run next year. :D

Here's the only pic I have so far. My brother an I (both finishers). I'm on the left in the pic.
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2635/3716068519_e2e78d3dec_o.jpg

[ahc4353]

Congrats!!!

[Mugen910]

Great job on the Triathlon. When I used to swim I never found the anti-fog to work well. I ended up just using a little bit of J&J baby shampoo on the goggles or even just spit into them. Congrats again on the great race.

[E.J.]

Bringing back a post from the dead....

Just finished my first tri of the season.... The bike portion is MTB and it kicked my tail. I was not prepared like I should have been, but I didn't die.... The climbing really took it out of my legs, I have only been on the MTB 1 time since the Fall and my legs felt it.(have been doing some road riding, mostly work commute)

Anyway.... Tis the season for triathlons....
http://img411.imageshack.us/img411/9372/4thstreetclinictri1.jpg

http://img683.imageshack.us/img683/5937/4thstreetclinictri2.jpg



Now it is time to start drinking beer and pick myself out a nice "finished" cigar....

[The Poet]

Triathletes? Yeah, I tried athletics once, and didn't like it.

[captain53]

Does Drinking - Cussing & Smoking count? If so I am one too and all signed in for the day.

[wolfandwhisky]

Bringing back a post from the dead....

Just finished my first tri of the season.... The bike portion is MTB and it kicked my tail. I was not prepared like I should have been, but I didn't die.... The climbing really took it out of my legs, I have only been on the MTB 1 time since the Fall and my legs felt it.(have been doing some road riding, mostly work commute)

Anyway.... Tis the season for triathlons....

Now it is time to start drinking beer and pick myself out a nice "finished" cigar....

Nice! :tu

Now that you've done the dirt tri, you'll have to take a look at the Xterra events! Plus, depending where you are, there are probably tons of other dirt tris... for example in Tempe there is the Pabst Blue Ribbon Off-Road Tri.

Xterra is the way to go - I have yet to do a road tri... dirt is just too much fun!

(also, CBS recently played the 2010 Xterra USA Championships... maybe they'll roll it again so keep an eye on mid-day weekend programming)

[E.J.]

Nice! :tu

Now that you've done the dirt tri, you'll have to take a look at the Xterra events! Plus, depending where you are, there are probably tons of other dirt tris... for example in Tempe there is the Pabst Blue Ribbon Off-Road Tri.

Xterra is the way to go - I have yet to do a road tri... dirt is just too much fun!

(also, CBS recently played the 2010 Xterra USA Championships... maybe they'll roll it again so keep an eye on mid-day weekend programming)

XTERRA USA Championships here in September.

Maybe I'll go ride the Sport route in June and see if it is worth getting signed up....

[wolfandwhisky]

XTERRA USA Championships here in September.

Maybe I'll go ride the Sport route in June and see if it is worth getting signed up....

Booya! That sounds like it would be a blast!

[Wanger]

I've got 2 online for this year, and maybe a 3rd and 4th. :D All road ones. Might start with a sprint in June, with an Olympic race in July and a Half Ironman following that, and end the season with a nice easy sprint race.

I REALLY got hooked last year. :p Looking for bike shoes that are a decent price that actually fit my clown feet without having to take out a second mortgage. Will be putting aero bars on the bike at least. Gotta have them for longer distances. I'm also planning on joinging a local tri team too. Yet another addiction. :(

[wolfandwhisky]

Nice Wanger! That's a good season you've got planned.

My schedule this year will be a bit different than most, so my season is going to be a bit different.

Flagstaff Barn Burner 107 (Mtn bike race) June
Xterra Deuces Wild July
Tour of the White Mountains (Mtn bike race, 36) Sept
PBR Off-Road Sprint Tri Sept/Oct (depends on what weekend)
24 Hours of Moab (Mtn bike race) Oct

That will probably do it for me this year. That first race is coming up really really quickly - need to start the training cycle up again...

[E.J.]

WOW....Half Ironman is business.... GOOD ON YOU!

As far as shoes, that is a tough one.... Kinda like cigars, what some love....others are not fans of. I have BIG feet, wear Sidi 49 MEGA's on both bikes. Dominator 5's and Zephyr's...

I personally perfer road....which is odd. I would probably rather MTB than just hit the road for a ride. But when putting all three together, the road bike seems to be a nice way for me to relax.....which I cannot do on the swim or run....

I end up having to think too much on the MTN bike....picking lines, cannot seem to get into a groove due to single track and people in the way, which going down is not a HUGE deal....but going up....


Doing a 100 mile MTN ride here in a few weeks. We broke it up A LOT, 4 days of riding, 3 camp stops.... It is vehicle supported and there will be MANY cigars and adult beverages.... Looking forward to it.

[E.J.]

24 hours of moab (mtn bike race) oct


nice!

[E.J.]

Finished 2nd triathlon(Sprint) of the year yesterday. Michelle(wife) completed her first....very proud of her.

Waiting for times to be posted.... Hoping to have improved on last years, even though conditions were MUCH worse.

[thebayratt]

My buddy and I were training for Triathalons. We wanted to do a half Ironman, the Alcatraz race, and then eventually a full Ironman. But in 2008 I had knee surgery and started back up training for them and it litterally kills my knee to run anything over a mile. He contiuned on and I just go for support to his races.

[Wanger]

Just finished my first race of the year yesterday. The Manitou Sprint Triathlon. My time was 1:34:06. I was hoping for 1:30 or under, but I just couldn't do it yesterday. Next year!

Bad news for my other tris this year...some pain in my knee for the last ~3/4 mile...puts the Half Iron I'm planning into some doubt. :( We'll see how things shape up for the rest of the week, though.

...oh, and I DID find bike shoes to fit my clown feet...got a pair of new to me SIDIs on eBay. Love the move to clipless...I feel like it has made a huge difference in my power and efficiency on the bike. :)

[E.J.]

Just finished my first race of the year yesterday. The Manitou Sprint Triathlon. My time was 1:34:06.

Nice...and CONGRATS!

[Wanger]

Knee is feeling great, but I've only been in the pool this week. The dream of doing a half iron this year isn't dead yet. We'll see how it feels after running tomorrow. :)

[Mugen910]

you are my hero...someday I wanna grow up to be just like you and do a triathlon...

Make sure you ice and stretch always. :tu

[captain53]

Smoke, drink, eat... Good luck to you though! :tu

:tpd:

[mosesbotbol]

Good luck. We can talk the cycling part, but that is about it for me.

[ucubed]

Aldrin (s0leful0ne), David (mexi-can), Patrick (pfm721) and myself will be doing our first sprint triathlon this September at Lake Eola in Orlando...well hopefully that is. We've started training back in I want to say April but I could be wrong.

[Wanger]

Aldrin (s0leful0ne), David (mexi-can), Patrick (pfm721) and myself will be doing our first sprint triathlon this September at Lake Eola in Orlando...well hopefully that is. We've started training back in I want to say April but I could be wrong.

Kevin, if you guys keep doing them, we will have to plan for me to come down there and all run one together. At some point, maybe I'll do the Clermont tri, since that's where all the in-laws are.

I started off last year just wanting to do it, as a challenge from my brother. My first one got me hooked, and I love it. I'm not the fastest out there, but just being part of it and being able to say "I did this." is what is the lure to me. I love the training and the feeling on race day makes it all worthwhile. I have found it to be an amazing endorphin rush and I can see myself continuing to do this for several years. I don't really have an ultimate goal, but I think it would be truly cool to be able to go and do "THE" Ironman in Hawaii some day. If I really wanted to compete for titles in my age group, I'd have to seriously upgrade my bike and change my training plan. But I'm fine where I'm at right now. :)

[Mugen910]

Kevin, if you guys keep doing them, we will have to plan for me to come down there and all run one together. At some point, maybe I'll do the Clermont tri, since that's where all the in-laws are.

I started off last year just wanting to do it, as a challenge from my brother. My first one got me hooked, and I love it. I'm not the fastest out there, but just being part of it and being able to say "I did this." is what is the lure to me. I love the training and the feeling on race day makes it all worthwhile. I have found it to be an amazing endorphin rush and I can see myself continuing to do this for several years. I don't really have an ultimate goal, but I think it would be truly cool to be able to go and do "THE" Ironman in Hawaii some day. If I really wanted to compete for titles in my age group, I'd have to seriously upgrade my bike and change my training plan. But I'm fine where I'm at right now. :)


I'll be waiting to see the post "I'm going to compete in Kona!" :tu

I can do the run part but combine that with the other 2 ??? :td I've run the Boston Marathon as a bandit off and on for about 10yrs with my now 50 yr old uncle and his friends, now they are getting into the 50milers and I'm lazy :D

[Wanger]

I'll be waiting to see the post "I'm going to compete in Kona!" :tu

I can do the run part but combine that with the other 2 ??? :td I've run the Boston Marathon as a bandit off and on for about 10yrs with my now 50 yr old uncle and his friends, now they are getting into the 50milers and I'm lazy :D

WOW! Ultras! DAMN!

You know D A M N sure that I will post something if and when that happens (Kona). :D

[Wanger]

8 days to the next race...the one that started me off last year. Instead of the sprint like last year, it'll be the Olympic distance. :) I feel I'm ready for it. A good ride tomorrow a rest day, then a couple more workouts and a few days of rest before the race.

I am not likely going to be doing the half iron that I had hoped to, but I will at least run the sprint (which I also did last year, so I'll be ab le to see just how much improvement I've made).

[Adriftpanda]

I just ran about 3 miles and I thought I was going to die.

[ucubed]

I sprained my ankle playing tennis earlier this week so I've been limited to just pulls during our swim practices =(

[wolfandwhisky]

no triathlons this year unfortunately - schedule conflicts for all the ones I try to do... so for this year, just mtb races... two more to go for sure, may loop in one or two more

[Wanger]

I sprained my ankle playing tennis earlier this week so I've been limited to just pulls during our swim practices =(

Excuses, excuses. :p

Just get in the pool and wprk on your timing and breathing, Kevin. I use mostly upper body when I swim to conserve my legs for everything else. Maybe next year, I'll get some coaching and see where it can take me. :)

[ucubed]

Excuses, excuses. :p

Just get in the pool and wprk on your timing and breathing, Kevin. I use mostly upper body when I swim to conserve my legs for everything else. Maybe next year, I'll get some coaching and see where it can take me. :)

I'm good on timing and breathing, but I need my legs to have a better idea since your legs use up more oxygen then your upper body. Yes it is true when swimming freestyle your stroke is where most of your momentum comes from. If you grab a kickboard and just kick vs grabbing a pull buoy and just stroke, you will notice a significant increase in speed in the latter vs the former. I swam in high school =D

[BlackDog]

Triathalons mystify me. I ran a marathon (a long time ago), and finished in under 3 hours, but had no interest in swimming or biking afterwards. ;)

Good luck next weekend! I hope it's not as hot as it is today. :tu

[E.J.]

Triathalons mystify me. I ran a marathon (a long time ago), and finished in under 3 hours, but had no interest in swimming or biking afterwards. ;)



Excellent, because you get to run last....:r





Just finished a nice bike ride in the Park City area.... Couple good climbs....getting ready for the Tour de Park City (ride, not race)...

[Wanger]

Triathalons mystify me. I ran a marathon (a long time ago), and finished in under 3 hours, but had no interest in swimming or biking afterwards. ;)

Good luck next weekend! I hope it's not as hot as it is today. :tu

Thanks, Warren. Even if it is as hot as it's been the last few days, I've been training in it, so I should be ready for it. :D

No more cigars for me until Sat. night. That first one will taste SO good! but what will it be?

[Wanger]

Race day tomorrow...I go off between 7: 25 and 7:30 Central. :) :tu

[OLS]

HHEEEEeellll, no. I saw it on NBC last weekend and I almost died in my house.
They were all, "well, once they turn around at this bouy, it will be another 7 miles
to go, then they'll put on their bike pants...." I thought, I wonder how many of em
drowned before the first bouy and no one ever say them cause of all the splashing?
I'd be like "WHAT, you mean the bouy's not the END??? Where's my brochure?

Originally Posted by Adriftpanda
I just ran about 3 miles and I thought I was going to die.

I have been walking 5-7 miles a day, because I am old and that's what we do. But every now
and again, I have to 'trot' to get out of a car's way or beat someone to something to get the
right of way. It's like pulling a dead body up the stairs. I never liked running in the service, but now it's a non-possibility.
__________________

[Wanger]

Well...I finished.

Swim went pretty well, but I went a bit off course, and ended up adding a bit more distance to it, though as I was getting to shore, my legs started to cramp. The bike felt good, and my time was about what I expected.

Then the "fun" began. Off on the run. I'd been trying to stay hydrated and taking my goos and blocks. I was feeling ok, trying to get my legs under me and loosen up...then, just before the 1 mile mark (of 6.2 miles) my quads started to cramp. I started to walk to let them loosen up. Didn't help. :( Then, it got real fun when my right quad AND hamstring locked up at the same time. Holy hell, that was painful! It was bad enough that even someone heading the other direction (I was at a turnaround point) asked if they should get medical for me. LOL I said "No, I just need a minute." I wanted to see if it would let go on its own. It did, but I was in pain for the rest of the 5.2 miles, running and walking intermittently. I was able to run the last 3/4 mile or so, and finished with some strength. All the blocks and powerade and water they had on the course didn't help, but I finished. My time was not close to what I wanted it to be, but given what I went through on the run, I'm just happy I finished.

Next race is another sprint in 2 weeks (July 25th). :D

[E.J.]

Way to power through!

I have a bike ride(Tour de Park City)... Riding with my wife & about 5 other friends(including the ex), it should be VERY fun.... The "recovery drinks" in Park City are going to make for an eventful evening....

Michelle and I rode the hard portion of the route yesterday, apparently I missed the hurricane warning on the weather forecast.... Worst weather ride I have ever had....

[sevans105]

Wanger, I'm no help on the tri front (congrats on being physically ready to do it though) I did notice you were from Minnesota. I'm trying to put together a Herf up here and you were recommended as someone who might be interested. Here's the thread I've started.http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/showthread.php?t=33880

[Wanger]

Last planned race of the year was yesterday. It went AWESOME!!! 1/4 mile swim was under 10 min, the bike was an average of 20.0 MPH over 22 miles. Finish time was 1:44:45. I finished in 22nd place in my age group (out of 53 finishers). My best placing, by far. :D

[Wanger]

New year, new races...

On Feb 18th, I signed up for the Chisago Lakes Half Ironman tri. July will be a combination of pure bliss and hell for me. :D Going to do the Manitou Sprint Tri again this year, and possibly another race in August. :)

What have you got on the docket for this year?

[ashtonlady]

Mike you are a crazy man. :)

[hammondc]

Thinking about starting these. Looking for an easy sprint. The swim is what is going to be tough for me. The plan would be to take it very slowly and make up the time on the run.

[ucubed]

First spring break...now being ill...I barely could run the past couple days without coughin' up a lung...I haven't been biking at all, not having a bike and taking so much time to adjust the stationary bike for a perfect fit makes me lazy for the bike....I'll do one of the sprints sooner or later

[replicant_argent]

I am training for one.
The Beer leg isn't a problem, but I think I need work on the Bourbon and Scotch legs.
Practice, Practice, Practice.
Train, Train, Train.

[Wanger]

First race of the season coming up for me on Sunday. Manitou Sprint in White Bear Lake. Since I've been training for a half ironman, this one should be a piece of cake. I did a brick workout on Wed. that felt great. Felt good about my speed on the bike, and my run pace was faster than expected at the effort I felt I was putting out. :D

Looking forward to this race! I'll post results and maybe pics on Monday. :)

[hammondc]

Finally registered for a sprint this summer. 500m/14mi/3.1mi. This will b e a litmus test to see where I am and what I need to train for. A huge plus is that they have a fat tire division so I can ride my MTB with some Conti Gatorskins.

[hscmit]

tis the season

good luck mike

[Wanger]

Finally registered for a sprint this summer. 500m/14mi/3.1mi. This will b e a litmus test to see where I am and what I need to train for. A huge plus is that they have a fat tire division so I can ride my MTB with some Conti Gatorskins.

A fat tire division? Cool. There are plenty of races that have a fat guy (Clydesdale...200+ lbs) division, which I actually fit into, but never seen a fat tire one. :p When and where is it?

tis the season

good luck mike

Thanks James. :)

[Wanger]

Race day! Get some!!!

[Wanger]

Finish time: 1:32:01. Better than last year, so I'll take it. Felt stronger than last year, as well. First race of the season, with the BIG on up next, on July 24th. :D

Here's my transition area before the race. :)
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3591/5828279360_5cbd8a4156_b.jpg

[E.J.]

NICE Mike!!!!

I have been SOOOO lazy this year.... I need to get a few races scheduled to get me off my a$$.....

[ashtonlady]

Nice bike Mike, What kind of peddles and clips do you have?

[mosesbotbol]

Nice bike Mike, What kind of peddles and clips do you have?

They look like Shimanos :confused:

[Wanger]

They're actually Nashbar Ventoux 2s. :D A fraction of the cost. SPD-SL style. :)

[hammondc]

A fat tire division? Cool. There are plenty of races that have a fat guy (Clydesdale...200+ lbs) division, which I actually fit into, but never seen a fat tire one. :p When and where is it?

Thanks James. :)

Yep..it is in July in San Marcos, TX. The swim is what I am struggling with. It is only 500m too. I am just a very slow swimmer. Hopefully I can get the stamina to make it through the swim and make it up on the bike&run.

[Wanger]

Yep..it is in July in San Marcos, TX. The swim is what I am struggling with. It is only 500m too. I am just a very slow swimmer. Hopefully I can get the stamina to make it through the swim and make it up on the bike&run.

Don't be afraid to rest at the buoys if you have to, or with a cute lifeguard. :p Survive the swim, and beat down the beyotches on the rest. :D

I'm gonna guess it will be too warm to allow wetsuits. If not, use one. It helps for confidence at the minimum. :)

[hammondc]

yep. Definitely too warm for wetsuits.

[mosesbotbol]

Hopefully I can get the stamina to make it through the swim and make it up on the bike&run.

You will. Pace your self and don't fret if you are getting passed in the water. 500M is not that long. How long do you think it will take to complete that leg?

[hammondc]

You will. Pace your self and don't fret if you are getting passed in the water. 500M is not that long. How long do you think it will take to complete that leg?

I have no idea. I am staying out of the way and allowing 10-12 mins. I am a weak swimmer. I just simply do not do it much. I am swimming everyday other day now to try and get ready. It is a 25m pool I am swimming in, so 20 laps just seems sooooo far.

[Wanger]

I have no idea. I am staying out of the way and allowing 10-12 mins. I am a weak swimmer. I just simply do not do it much. I am swimming everyday other day now to try and get ready. It is a 25m pool I am swimming in, so 20 laps just seems sooooo far.

My guess is that you'll be somewhere in the neighborhood of 12-15 min, honestly. My last race last year was a 1/4 mile swim, and I did it in 9:36. In the race I did Sunday, it was a 1/2 mile swim, and my time was 19:01. I'm a middle of the pack swimmer.

As was said, don't worry about the others around you. The main thing I can say is what was told to me before I did my first...trust your training. Focus on yourself, as well, and pay no attention to those around you in the water, unless you're using them for sighting purposes (rather than trying to locate the buoys on your own). You will get hit, kicked, and bumped. Know that going in, and do your best to not let it completely throw you off. Simply try to just bounce off and keep going. Obviously, the swim is the most difficult part of a tri for most people (I'm no exception). Do what you can to block out the people around you and focus on your stroke and breathing. If you can do that, you'll be just fine.

I'm definitely no expert, but I've learned a few things in the races that I've done, and if I can pass that knowledge on to help others, it makes me feel good.

I love doing these races, and the physical and mental challenge of them is simply awesome.






...and yes, I know I'm completely insane. That's why I fit in so well here. :D

[Wanger]

Just under 2 weeks to my next race. Starting my taper this week. I have to admit that I'm getting a bit nervous about this race. I will be able to handle the swim and cruise through the bike, but I'm hoping to be able to stave off cramping and push through the 13.1 mile run. THAT'S going to be the painful part for me...the last half of that run.

Anyone done any others through the summer?

[hammondc]

Mine is July 24th.

[Wanger]

Mine is July 24th.

Hah...same date here. I'll virtual smoke in celebration with you that night. :D

[hammondc]

OH YEAH! Mine is just a srpint Tri though to get my feet wet in the sport.

[Blak Smyth]

I did win a gold member on a beer olympic team, but I guess that doesn't much apply here.

[Wanger]

OH YEAH! Mine is just a srpint Tri though to get my feet wet in the sport.

I'll give you the advice I got here before I did my first...trust your training. You've put in all the time, and done all the drills. You CAN do it. Just relax and go at your own pace. Focus on what you're doing and need to do, and everything will be OK. Don't panic in the water. There are buoys and lifeguards if you need to rest/reset. Set your transition area up in order, and everything set and ready so that you don't have to think much there. Have a drink and gel there, as well. KEEP HYDRATED! NOT with only water, though! But the most important thing I can say is ENJOY THE DAY! Race with a smile on your face and have FUN! Having that kind of attitude helps it go MUCH better. I try to and it makes it all feel so much easier and better.

If you have any questions, I'd be happy to try to help from my experiences. :)

I did win a gold member on a beer olympic team, but I guess that doesn't much apply here.

LOL!

[Wanger]

About 48 hours from now, I will be nearing the finish on the run for my next event, the Chisago Lakes Triathlon, long course. :D Nerves are kicking up a bit, and I keep telling myself, I've made it through each portion in my training. Compartmentalize each portion that way, and I will be able to do it. Keep my own pace on the swim, push it on the bike, and push through the pain on the run. Jeebus, I'm realizing how insane I am. http://www.smileystar.com/smileys/msn-crazy-smileys/yellow%20crazy.gif

[hammondc]

About 48 hours from now, I will be nearing the finish on the run for my next event, the Chisago Lakes Triathlon, long course. :D Nerves are kicking up a bit, and I keep telling myself, I've made it through each portion in my training. Compartmentalize each portion that way, and I will be able to do it. Keep my own pace on the swim, push it on the bike, and push through the pain on the run. Jeebus, I'm realizing how insane I am. http://www.smileystar.com/smileys/msn-crazy-smileys/yellow%20crazy.gif

Is it Olympic length? Good luck.

[Mattso3000]

Good luck Mike.

[replicant_argent]

I am doing one tomorrow. I have been training for years and I am finally ready.





Breakfast... Lunch, AND Dinner...


I hope I can pace myself so I don't cramp. Everyone thinks I am out of my mind for tackling such a daunting task, but I just tell them that they can think I am crazy, and I can handle anything!!!!

Now, where is that corned beef jerky!

[Wanger]

I am doing one tomorrow. I have been training for years and I am finally ready.





Breakfast... Lunch, AND Dinner...


I hope I can pace myself so I don't cramp. Everyone thinks I am out of my mind for tackling such a daunting task, but I just tell them that they can think I am crazy, and I can handle anything!!!!

Now, where is that corned beef jerky!

LOL Pete. Hope you didn't pull a hammy. :-P

Is it Olympic length? Good luck.

Nope...half iron. :)

Race results: 6:23:51

Going in, I just wanted to finish. I'd have pleased with 7:00, and ecstatic with 6:30. Well, I'm ecstatic. :D Swim went awesome...44 and change. Bike went smoothly and as expected. Run was the tough part. Started salting out at about 8 miles, and doubled up from there on out at the water stops. The best part of the whole thing for me was my boys running the last ~100 yards to the finish line with me. Can't wait to see that on the race pictures!

[hammondc]

LOL Pete. Hope you didn't pull a hammy. :-P



Nope...half iron. :)

Race results: 6:23:51

Going in, I just wanted to finish. I'd have pleased with 7:00, and ecstatic with 6:30. Well, I'm ecstatic. :D Swim went awesome...44 and change. Bike went smoothly and as expected. Run was the tough part. Started salting out at about 8 miles, and doubled up from there on out at the water stops. The best part of the whole thing for me was my boys running the last ~100 yards to the finish line with me. Can't wait to see that on the race pictures!


Damn fine job. Half Iron is a helluva accomplishment.

[E.J.]

BIG congrats, Mike.... That is awesome!

[Wanger]

Thanks guys. I'll add a couple pics once we get moved and can get them off the camera onto the computer.

[hammondc]

Did a dry run of the Sprint Tri on Saturday. I should come in under 2hrs.

[Wanger]

Sweet! Always good to have a practice run in before the race, and helps with course familiarity. :) What are the distances for the portions?


Only have a couple of the pics saved...ones from phones...from last weeks race.
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6003/5977880562_38ac19568b_b.jpg

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6006/5977323813_f935a68fd7_z.jpg

A great swim last week started the itch to do one more this year, too. :p

[hammondc]

500M/13Mi/4Mi. I was happy with it. Especially since we got a late start and it was over 90* when we started the run. Another dry run this weekend and then the real thing the weekend after. Ill have to rummage up something rad to smoke to celebrate.

I have a feeling I am going to get the itch after this first one. I am already looking at road bikes.

[Wanger]

500M/13Mi/4Mi. I was happy with it. Especially since we got a late start and it was over 90* when we started the run. Another dry run this weekend and then the real thing the weekend after. Ill have to rummage up something rad to smoke to celebrate.

The run can really suck when the heat starts to inch up. Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate!!! If you're a heavy sweater, think about added a little salt to your electrolyte beverage of choice. I did, and I think it helped me. It may not taste good, but taste isn't what you're after. ANY smoke can be a celebratory smoke. :D

I have a feeling I am going to get the itch after this first one. I am already looking at road bikes.

Ha ha. I know that one! I did my second 2 weeks after the first one. :D Haven't looked back since.

[ashtonlady]

S0 When is the next one Mike?

[Wanger]

Late August or September. Been looking at the schedule in the last day. :D

I might be doing it with a friend who's doing his first one this weekend. We'll see how he feels afterwards. :p

[hammondc]

Did the bike on the actual course saturday. Holy crap it is hard. this is a video of the bike portion, but the video really does not do it justice. that last 2 miles or so before the turnaround are hell.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vdR6bQEP5x0

[hammondc]

Looks like tomorrow is the day! oohhh yeah!

[hammondc]

1:47. Very good considering I just wanted to get in under 2hr. missed placing in the fat tire division by just under a minute. dammit.

[ashtonlady]

Congratulations

[Wanger]

1:47. Very good considering I just wanted to get in under 2hr. missed placing in the fat tire division by just under a minute. dammit.

Great job! So when's the next one? :p

Got mine figured out as of this weekend. Sept. 18th. One Last Tri in Stillwater. :D

[Wanger]

Yup...did my last tri of the "season" yesterday. Another sprint: 600yd swim (but was shorter, just not sure how short), 14.25 mile bike, 5k.

Here's my race report:
Wading in for a "warmup" swim was a good idea. It was chillly! I at least knew what I should expect when I hit the water for the race. Low 60s at best for a water temp, I think. It had been cold for a few days and rained that night and into the morning. Thank Dog for my wetsuit! The start was 5 at a time every 5 seconds. The water was PACKED. We ran about 100yds before we got to water deep enough to swim in. :confused: Whay have it there? I was swimming around and over people. One of the worse swim portions I've seen, though I finished well, and was pleased with my overall placing for that portion. I ran up on shore, feeling good about my time on the swim, and didn't feel the chill in the air as I stripped off the top half of my wetsuit. Ran to my bike, got my shoes and shirt on and took of to the mounting area.

The roads were wet from the rain from the night before and what was still coming down. But as I got going, I felt good and was pushing the pace fairly decently. My cyclocomputer was reading 24-25mph for the first couple flat to stlightly downhill miles. I was feeling good. The hills weren't too big and not overly challenging (plus my training rides had some decent ones, at least). The worst part was how far we had to slow down on the turns (which were rather sharp). Took lots of the momentum away, and I need my momentum, being a bigger rider. Finished the bike with what I calculated later as a 20.4mph average for the course, which is a record pace for me. :D

Back to the transition area, chugged a little sports drink and pounded a goo, threw on the running shoes and off I went for my last 3.1 miles. It's always a little odd when you get off the bike and hit the run, but I felt stranger than usual this time. Just into the run, I realized my right foot was numb, and wasn't getting any better. That sucked, but I kept pushing through it. We had to stop for bikes to cross in front of us on the run portion, which hurt the time a bit. I kept going, still with my foot being numb. There was some running on a wet trail, and a guy next to me bit it, so I stopped to help him up. It wasn't until about halfway into the run that the numbness in my foot started to let up. When it finally did, I was onto the trails for the rest of the race. There were some spots with poor footing and unevenness. Then a final uphill that threatened to cause my quads to cramp. I fought that off to the final turn and was able to "sprint" the remainder of the race to the finish line.

My time ended up as 1hr 20min 33sec. Good enough for 125th overall, out of ~500 entrants. My best finish yet! :) I'm not the best or fastest out there, but I love doing them, and will keep at it as long as I can. I'll never win one, but I might be able to win my age group when I'm 70. :p

On to planning next year's schedule now. :D

[landhoney]

I'm 2/3rds of the way towards trying one of these. I've run in several races up to a half marathon, and now have taken up biking again (Giant OCR2 road bike). I just need to work on the swimming.

I think just like with running, I'll have to pick an upcoming event a ways off and then use that as the motivation to get training/swimming. :tu Maybe next spring :hm

[Wanger]

Season has started to take some shape for me...signed up for 2 tris so far this year. The sprint that I did to start out the last 2 years in June, and the Half Iron I did last year (yup...Half Iron again). Looking to possibly add 2 more tris into the schedule. Possibly one called the Tristar 111. It's a 111 km race...1k swim, 100k bike, and 10k run. Sounds interesting to me.

And Erin and I are doing both of the Warrior Dash locations in MN this year (June 30th, and Sept. 8th)

Any of you have anything planned for this year yet?

[hammondc]

None planned yet. Teetering on the idea of a couple. I will be doing the Tough Mudder in Austin though...

[Wanger]

Race #1 of the season done yesteday. I cut my overall time down by over 2 minutes, despite having a run that was 2 min slower than last year's race. I'm pleased, yet disappointed, with the slower run time. Gotta adjust my training, so I have more left in the tank at the end. Next up will be the half ironman that I did last year. Need to really start stretching out the lengths of the training now. :)

Yesterday was also my wife's first triathlon. Despite hating the swim (choppy water, and tons of weeds), she loved it, and is looking forward to doing her next (another sprint) at the venue I'm doing my half at. :) I may have created a monster! LOL

Anyone else have anything coming up?

[Wanger]

Race 2 of the year down...Chisago Lakes Half Ironman. Swim was a better time than last year. Bike was a better time than last year. Run was BRUTAL. Started to cramp a half mile into it. Ran when it could, and walked when I had to. It was painful, but I actually had a better time than I did last year. Overall, I'm pleased, as I've been fighting a sinus infection/cold for the last 2 weeks.

Next up is a sprint in 2 weeks, followed by an Olympic on Sept 1st. :)

[hammondc]

First Olympic length this Sunday. I'll be SO glad to get out of the water. I know I have the distance as I have been doing 2k yards three times a week at the YMCA. Tried open water a couple days ago....forgot how different it is. Got about 300 yards and panicked- mostly because I was the ONLY one around.

[RWhisenand]

Good luck Chip!

[E.J.]

Good luck, Chip... Look forward to hearing how it goes!

[hammondc]

Went pretty well. 3:13:38 for my first oly. Tough bike too.

[The Poet]

I looked at this quickly, and I swear it said "Any trilobites here?" :r