San Diego International Triathlon (SDIT)
About a month ago I raced the San Diego International Triathlon. SDIT iss a non-USAT event, so I was able to toe-the-line in the elite division with the fast guys (I also raced elite at this race last year with relatively successful results).
During the swim I was one of three guys leading a chase pack behind the eventual winner, Luke McKenzie. I think I was second out of the water behind Luke, but a few guys in the chase pack with me had a faster transition, so I was probably 4th or 5th heading out on the bike course. Out on the bike course, I was passed by a few more of the uber strong cyclists, but I held my ground among the rest of the field. At the start of the run I was in 7th and I knew I had some work to do. I was able to run down two of the guys in front of me and I didn't let anyone pass. I usually take down an energy gel during the bike leg of a race that is this distance. During this race I lost the gel pack and didn't take in any nutrition the whole race. I was very glad when I crossed the finish line because I was definitely running on fumes for the last couple of miles.
I ended up finishing 5th overall. The guys in front of me included a pair of Ironman champions (Luke and Luke) and a couple of guys that race on the ITU circuit (Chris and Derek). I'd say I was in pretty good company.
A nice summary article of the race can be found here.
I must have a weird shaped head because it seems that my cap is always falling off...
Photo courtesy of Kevin Koresky @ TriLounge.com
Hoping the finish line is right around the corner
Photo courtesy of Kevin Koresky @ TriLounge.com
What am I up to right now, you ask?
Right now I am in the middle of a heavy training block focusing on getting strong and fast for my late season races. I am finishing off about a month of high volume work. I will dial back for a week and then focus on speed work leading up to my next race. My remaining triathlon race schedule for the 2013 season is the following:
- 9/7 - Nautica Malibu Triathlon (International Distance)
- 9/15 - ITU Short Course Age Group World Championship
- 10/20 - Lifetime Triathlon - Oceanside
I have a Team USA uniform. Seems weird to see my name on there...
Finally, if you need to stock up on triathlon gear for your late season races, use coupon code MTRIPP at trisports.com for 15% off of your purchase!
