bike tubes

So far, from my n=1 study, cheap tubes have poor rolling qualities.

Popped a 2 year old freshly pumped up Specialized tube on the rollers.  Put in my Axiom (Norco) spare, pumped it up, and the rolling resistance was noticeably higher. 

This was for my road bike.  For my MTB, I would wouldn't care with the rolling qualities of the knobbys....

I guess I'm not like everyone else.  I'm looking for tubes that will roll best and not break the bank, longevity is not the primary consideration. 

Tubes vary greatly in quality, and the cheapest butyl ones will cost you speed come race day - latex will save you some time (no idea if they are made for a 34 though).  Also look at your choice in tire, the ones with the lower rolling resistance will save you some additional time on race day, however they may not last as long as slightly slower, but more durable tires.

Still learning in the cycling world - which tubes and tires do you gravitate to for racing purposes?

This. MEC rules. You won't notice any difference in rolling resistance unless the majority of your training is done surfing the triathlon websites. Rough roads don't give a sh*t about what your tubes are made of. Personally I would worry more about the viscosity of your recovery drink.

You're right - ignore the data that people have put together and go with what "you" know is best.  That's a solid plan.

For those who are interested, you'll notice that most people will save the latex tubes for race day and you can save as much as 2.5 watts/wheel over a butyl tube.  Sounds like a small amount, but when added in with all the other small things, it adds up to quite a bit.

Some people will also train on latex tubes, and will argue they are just as durable as butyl - others believe they are more prone to punctures.  There is some difference in opinion about longevity - but the testing shows latex is faster.