Soma Quarterman Triathlon - TriathlonOlympic

Well the experiment of not swimming at all inbetween races provided predictable results. A pretty terrible swim that did not involve drowning. About what I thought was halfway through a kayaker informed me that in fact I had turned too early and should probably finish the rest of the course. I obliged and added a few minutes to my swim time. I had fun though and stayed calm, I didn't have any expectations for the swim so giving that I did great. I think my Mom was just impressed I didn't drown.

Nothing. I hate dislike swimming.

Transitions have gotten alot faster with the ESCKTC tri kits. No complaints here. Not bad seeing as I had a pretty crappy rack spot.

The bike went really well. I took it about myself to be Mr. friendly pointy hat today. I told everyone when I was passing them and told as many people good job as possible. I even saved one girl in the Quarter from DQ'ing by telling her not to do the U-turn on Mill during her first lap.

It is interesting now though how the majority of people do not announce their passes, especially in situations that require it (i.e. turns, when the rider is getting ready to pass another rider, etc.) Once on Rio Salado while I was passing a slower rider a half elite passed me on my left unannounced where there was barely any room. I don't attend race meetings anymore so I wonder if they are still being clear about rules and general courtesy. Oh before I forget people need to learn how to throw their water bottles from aid stations off the road.

Other than that the course was really fast and so with little wind I was able to turn out a pretty solid split. The beginning was a bit crowded and my flatwing conveniently exploded causing me to lose my water bottle and spare tube. Luckily the course was well supported.

I paced myself just how I wanted to in this ride, saving my quads for the run, so no complaints here.

Big transition area + kinda crappy rack spot = average T2 time.

My goal for this race was to run sub 10's and thankfully that worked out. Yes I still got passed alot but I consoled myself by telling myself it was because I was fast enough on the bike that I was up with fast people. I spent most of my time trying to find someone to pace off, finally finding a 56 year old that I paced off for about a mile and half. I convinced myself that was ok because he was in good shape for a 56 year old and he was wearing a team Vitesse kit so he must be somewhat talented. I think he eventually got sick of my heavy breathing and started walking so I was on my own again. I saw a ton of BT/ESCKTCers on the out and back. Really made me thankful for all the great, fun people we get to train and hang out with. We have a huge contingent at every race and everyone is always so damn friendly as opposed to all the other angry faces out there.

I still just need to work on running faster. I know it takes a ton of work to gain any speed on the run but it is so worth it. More HIT and strength for me.

SLIP-AND-SLIDE! What a great way to finish a fun race. That damn thing should be mandatory from now on. After that had some of the Shamrock farms recovery drink and some cookies. Good recovery stuff.


I was very impressed this year with the race. I think the modified the bike and run course for the better and the aid was more than sufficient. Slip and slide finish, stands at the end, overall just a really good setup for a Tempe race.