Triple Threat Triathlon Series

This was a new series in my area and of course I had to be part of the fun. It consisted of three triathlons three weeks in a row, each one a little unique. The prize for doing all three was a really nice jacket. How could I pass that up? The bonus was three triathlons within very short driving distance and a chance to hang out with some really awesome friends every weekend. The hidden bonus was I actually saw improvement from week to week.

Race 1: Reverse Tri at Scott City

First race finished.

Holy cow, this one had me worried. It was run in reverse order with the run first and swim last. Yikes! I totally suck at the run and was so worried about being exhausted that I would be worthless on the bike and flounder in the water. But it really worked well and the transitions were actually easier. You were taking things off not putting things on. The only down side for me was my shoulders really tightened up as I rode and the swim stroke was pretty painful. I even managed to maintain my normal pace for each segment. Finished with a smile as there were no age group awards.

Race 2: Double Triathlon at Holcomb

Second Race Finished

This triathlon give you the option to finish a mini sprint and then do it again, backwards. So you can swim, bike, run, run, bike, swim, to complete the double. I'm crazy, but not that crazy and only did the first part. The distances are 225 swim, 9 mile bike, 2 mile run so the single is pretty doable. Since one of the ladies in my age group did the double it bumped me up to second place in my division. Woo Hoo!

Race 3: Arkansas Trails Triathlon at Garden City

Third Race Finished!!

I was really looking forward to the swim part of this race and dreading the run. The Big Pool in Garden City is huge by pool standards and I lobbied hard to get a perimeter swim to simulate an open water swim in a clear water environment. Those who were leery of lakes and murky water could see the bottom and those who didn't feel strong enough to swim in a lake could get that feeling and still have the side near enough to grab if they needed. Each lap around the pool is approximately 200 meters so twice around the pool was a perfect distance. The bike was the normal route through the Sand Hills and back. But the run was scary for me. It was a 4 mile run through trails along the Arkansas River. The sand was loose in many areas with lots of hidden rocks and uneven gullies. I took my time and survived. I finished 3rd again, just out of the medals behind the same two ladies. But I finished.

Final Thoughts

It was a fantastic turnout for this series. Over 25 people took up the challenge and completed all three races. It points out the popularity of this sport and the desire of people in our area to try new things and step out of our comfort zones. Many others participated in one or two of the events and all three races were well attended. I'm in awe of the fast people and inspired by everyone who steps up to the start line. The positive energy that flows at events like this is like nothing else in the world. I hope this series continues to grow. It's unique and fun and has brought me many new friends. That's a win in my books.

Triple Threat Triathlon Finishers. (I'm at the far left)