Gear West Duathlon - Duathlon

This was WAY harder than I had bargained for. I'm just glad I managed under 10 m/m, because I walked up several hills. We started out super fast and I made up as much time as I could elsewhere. Was pretty hot because I wanted the jacket for the bike, but def didn't need it for the run.

Train for this type of terrain.

I had to grab my Gu from my bag, because I forgot to put it on me or the bike. This took a bit longer than it should have due to that mistake. Otherwise I hustled pretty well.

Remember the Gu before I start.

I didn't do as well as I hoped (55 min goal), but it all went well. I passed a lot of people for good, and played back a forth with a few guys. It was nice to be in the thick of it, since my wave started in the middle. Definitely a challenging course with many gear changes, etc.

Should have biked the course in advance, but all in all I don't think I could have done much better.

Slow getting off the bike and to my spot. I whipped off my gloves, helmet, jacket and had to look around for a minute to remember where to run out. I was pooped and not looking forward to that run again... But I am happy with my speed here. No frills du transition.

Hustle more, a sub-1 min t2 would be better.

Felt better this time because I was happy to be nearing the finish and I was much cooler without my jacket and gloves. Still a rough run, though, and I walked up the same hills. I tried really hard to run up the last steep hill, but honestly I wanted to crawl (it's that steep!), so I guess walking isn't so bad. Really happy to see the finish line and ran it in pretty well.

Running isn't my best sport and this was a VERY difficult run course, compared to what I am prepared for. I also trained right through this race, so I could perhaps have done slightly better if I'd tapered, etc.


Stayed for the raffle which took a looooong time after the awards. I don't know why I bother, I never win anything :) Raced for 2 hours and stood around for 1.5! Think of how long the fast people hung around.

This is a challenging race which draws a fast, tight, tri/du crowd in an area where a lot of people are used to training in. It's totally different from a small local event, or the Irongirl Du which attracts a lot of first-timers. So it's nice to do well at events with a less elite crowd, it's probably a good idea to take on a challenge occasionally.