One of my NOR PAC colleagues, Don, has been on my case for years to join up and I finally gave in this year. I thought it would be a good way to finish the racing season, since I did my last triathlon last weekend.
I underestimated how difficult it would be. Surprisingly, my legs felt strong through all three legs, but the sleep deprivation was brutal. It was like having a severe jet-lag while racing at the same time.
Would I do it again? Absolutely.
Thanks to the guys and gals in Van 1. It was a pleasure spending 27 sweaty and grimy hours with you in that Chevy.
I was too tired to use the camera much, but here are some pictures:
I don’t have time for a race report, but here are some pictures from yesterday, courtesy of Lisa and Jeff. Thanks, guys!
It was a cool feeling to race in a city, and for all you doubters out there: No, I am still not throwing up or showing any signs of E. Coli after swimming in the Willamette.
Just got home from downtown where I finished this year’s triathlon season by participating in the Portland Triathlon. Had a blast and was happy with my performance, considering the limited focus and dedication since July.
17th overall, and a bronze in my age group.
My personal photography staff (Lisa and Jeff) was on location, so I’ll post some shots later. Jeff even went through the trouble of designing his own double-mounted still+video camera setup! How’s that for good friends?
Yesterday’s sprint race at Hagg Lake was my best triathlon so far, which took me by surprised since I didn’t mark it as a high-priority event. I’ve focused on longer and more endurance-specific workouts this season in preparation for the Olympic distance.
The weather was not optimal for a fast race. It was overcast and 60-something the whole time and I felt stiff on the bike. Comfortable running temperature, though.
A brief race report below the pictures.
Swim – 14:15 – 50th Place
Had secret hopes of breaking 14 minutes but was very pleased with 14:15, which put me in 50th place overall.
T1 – ?
The reason why I don’t have an official time is that I lost my timing chip during a fall on the way up to the transition area. Fortunately, my trusted Timex watch still works, so I was able to keep time myself.
Bike – Right around 34:00 (unofficial) – 5th or 6th Place
Didn’t feel great and held back a bit, trying to save some for the run. Still improved by about half a minute from last year.
T2 – ?
Run – 19:02 (unofficial) – 2nd Place
My best triathlon run ever. Felt OK coming out of T2 and really hit my stride at the 2 km mark. The final kilometer was awesome and I chased down a couple of competitors.
Final Time: 1:11:10 (official) – 4th Overall and 1st in my age group (35-39)!
Off to Portugal tomorrow. Will try to squeeze in a few runs but otherwise take it easy for a week between business appointments.
Surfing in Bali.
