Black Bear, PA Tri

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2007-05-30 10:27 AM

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Subject: Black Bear, PA Tri
So I went this weekend to do a trial run on the Black Bear, PA tri course. I sure picked the worst triathlon I could have to be my first. What a rude awakening? I have never seen hills like that. The bike course is outrageous - I almost felt like I should start seeing goats next to me climbing up those hills. I have been able to work myself up to a 21 mph average on flat or rolling hill roads, but I only averaged just shy of 14 mph on that ride. It's crazy.

Although, when I got done with it without once getting off the bike or stopping, I got the biggest sense of accomplishment, to a point where I went for a run and then a swim.

Despite the challenging terrain, I encourage all of you to sign up for it (either this year, or next year). It's incredible out there.

The big day is this Sunday...

2007-05-30 10:58 AM
in reply to: #822128

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Subject: RE: Black Bear, PA Tri

Go get 'em! 

Peace,
Brian

2007-05-30 11:09 AM
in reply to: #822128


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Subject: RE: Black Bear, PA Tri
Yeah man,

We went up there for our training weekend with the tri club. We did 30 miles the day before through Jim Thorpe (right outside where the tri is). Lets just say well over 20% grades! It was brutal. Then we went and did that course the next day; it was tough. I am very psyched for this weekend. My first tri also. Good luck
2007-05-30 11:15 AM
in reply to: #822128

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Subject: RE: Black Bear, PA Tri

Just remember, everyone else has to ride the hills also so 14mph might not be a bad average for the race.  Look at last years result that might give you a better idea of what you should be doing.

And remember, what goes up must come down.

2007-05-30 11:21 AM
in reply to: #822128

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Subject: RE: Black Bear, PA Tri
PompEner - Good luck to you too...see you next weekend.

kproudfoot - this is the first tri in Black Bear, PA, so there are no times for previous years. Also, as I was riding, it felt like there weren't too many downs. Although, I must admit that in one of the downs my buddy and I (both clydesdales) reached 46mph...that was scary cool.
2007-05-30 11:21 AM
in reply to: #822128

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Subject: RE: Black Bear, PA Tri
doh!   thanks for the heads up.  I'm doing the sprint and it will be my first tri also.  guess i'll leave the climbing bars on the mountain bike .

2007-05-30 11:28 AM
in reply to: #822276

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Subject: RE: Black Bear, PA Tri
You'll get it done....just take it easy on the swim!
2007-05-30 1:27 PM
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2007-05-30 2:42 PM
in reply to: #822128

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Subject: RE: Black Bear, PA Tri
As a fellow clyde, I sympathize... those hills really are tough on us. Stay in the saddle!
2007-05-30 3:19 PM
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Subject: RE: Black Bear, PA Tri
Kosova Kid - 2007-05-30 11:21 AM PompEner - Good luck to you too...see you next weekend. kproudfoot - this is the first tri in Black Bear, PA, so there are no times for previous years. Also, as I was riding, it felt like there weren't too many downs. Although, I must admit that in one of the downs my buddy and I (both clydesdales) reached 46mph...that was scary cool.
That stinks. I would not worry about it too much. Just ride your race and you will be better prepared for the next one.  Plus, you can tell by how often you are passing/being passed how you are doing.  Just have fun and dont' worry about everyone else and you will be fine.
2007-05-30 3:35 PM
in reply to: #822128

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Subject: RE: Black Bear, PA Tri
I've done Anthracite (and will again this year), it's an Oly held at Mauch Chunk State Park just outside of Jim Thorpe. There are ALOT of hills, but it's fun. I think I averaged 18mph last year.

I plan on doing Black Bear next year, as long as it gets good reviews in this, it's first year.

2007-05-30 3:51 PM
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Subject: RE: Black Bear, PA Tri
If anyone is interested, here is the link

http://www.cgiracing.com/

just click Black Bear section of the page.
2007-05-31 6:42 AM
in reply to: #822128

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Subject: RE: Black Bear, PA Tri
I'm in for the half.

I rode the bike a couple of times. Like everyone said it's a tough course, but there are some amazing views that will take your mind off the burning thighs.

See you there!
2007-05-31 7:09 AM
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Subject: RE: Black Bear, PA Tri
I know the RD of the this race and sometimes he posts on here so maybe he'll see this thread and shed some more light on the course.
2007-05-31 8:01 AM
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Subject: RE: Black Bear, PA Tri
I agree that the views are breathtaking.

I hope my thread did not discourage anyone...I posted it just to let the first times know what they're getting themselves into. Although the course is tough, it is very doable. And, the bike course seems very clean and smooth even before they sweep the corners and do the preparatory work.

Good luck to everyone and see you next weekend!
2007-05-31 8:20 AM
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Subject: RE: Black Bear, PA Tri

kleinrider - 2007-05-31 8:09 AM I know the RD of the this race and sometimes he posts on here so maybe he'll see this thread and shed some more light on the course.

He's already at the race site, so I don't know if he'll be on BT much .

Good luck everyone, it's bound to be a great race.



2007-05-31 10:01 AM
in reply to: #822128

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Subject: RE: Black Bear, PA Tri
Have a great race up there!!!

(You were smart to go check out the course -- a plus in your preparedness column.)
2007-05-31 12:50 PM
in reply to: #822128

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Subject: RE: Black Bear, PA Tri
I'm signed up for the Sprint, but have never ridden the course.  I was comparing it to the Columbia (Maryland) tri course (my "home" course) and it looks comparable.  Anyone out there ridden both of these courses and can comment?
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