Russell State Park, Tri the Parks Race, 8-15-2009

Written by Bob MacLachlan

Olympic distance race [s-1500 m; b- 22 miles; r- 6.2 miles]

My times:  S 49:29; B 1:13; R 1:07; T 3:15:39

The swim seemed longer than the 1500 meters and the race favored the fastest swimmers.  Since the swim is the most challenging part of the triathlon for me, it was the hardest of the five Tri the Parks races I have done this year.  I have improved my swim times a little, but the youngsters and the sleek dudes always pass me in the water.  I always make up some of swim losses on the bike and it’s fun to pedal past some of the people who have passed me in the water earlier.  The bike and run went better than I expected, because at the last 100 meters of the swim I developed a minor cramp in my left calf muscle.  It wanted to come back when I was on the bike, but eventually went away so I was able to continue.  On the run my right leg started to cramp, but it too subsided and I finished.  Olympic distance races require more hydration, electrolytes and nutrition than the four sprint distance races I did earlier this summer.

I am writing this report while sitting in the surgical waiting room at Piedmont Hospital here in Atlanta.  My son Mark shattered the socket of his right shoulder while on a training ride in Peachtree City two days ago.  A specialist in shoulder surgery is doing a 3-hour procedure to mend the socket joint.  Mark and I were registered for the age group national championship triathlon on Saturday, but here I sit praying for God to guide the surgeon’s hands.  Hopefully Mark and I can register for that race next year.

Being on the All3Sports triathlon team with Mark has been a wonderful experience for both of us.  We train and race on our Cervelo bicycles with pride.  Whenever we visit the All3Sports store we get excellent advice on riding technique, nutrition, clothing and other gear.  I looking forward to next year when Mark and I can train, go to more races, and enjoy the All3Sports lifestyle.

DREAM BIG! DREAM FAST! LIVE STRONG!