Question:

I was in the same situation as you. www.totalimersion.net is a god send. I went to a two day class and it really improved my swimming. If you casn’t get to a class, read the articles or buy his book "Swimming Made Easy" It’s all about balance and economy. Invest in a good wetsuit even if not required in the race. It helps out with bouyance. I’m trying my first IM this summer. Three years ago I could hardly swim 100 m.

Response:

Hey Rob, I’m a bit of a newbie/lurker here as I have only recently made the decision to do a Try-A-Tri in May. I, too, am starting not quite from scratch, but need a lot of work. I have done the front crawl with the face out of the water for years, but after seeing triathletes (and swimmers, of course) putting their faces in the water for the exhale, I figured I should learn that in order to be most efficient. I’m also going to be starting private lessons soon, mainly to learn the front crawl properly, and to correct my technique on other strokes if necessary. I’m decent (tho’ self-taught) at the side stroke, breast stroke, and various back strokes and crawl. Distance-wise, I can nearly do the race distance now using these other strokes, but am not wasting my time doing the front crawl improperly any longer… I’ll wait for the lessons. There are many of us in the same boat here, Cam — – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Had my first swimming lesson this lunchtime! Ok, I’m not starting from scratch, I can swim, just not very effectively or far (I worked really hard a couple of years ago to be able to do the 200m required for PADI diving certification). Concentrating on improving my front crawl and I know I have a lot of work to do. Plan to do the Windsor Tri, sprint distance in June this year. So, is a 750m open water swim in 5 months time feasible do you think? Any advice appreciated. cheers Rob

Response:

scratch, but need a lot of work. I have done the front crawl with the face out of the water for years, but after seeing triathletes (and swimmers, of course) putting their faces in the water for the exhale, I figured I should learn that in order to be most efficient.

Definitely want to do so – face out is much more tiring.   For racing purposes, you don’t need to worry about other strokes, unless you want a rest stroke for the very long swims. — Jason O’Rourke www.jor.com

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Rob, I’m in the same position as you, I can swim 25yd front crawl then I’m out of breath. I’m aiming for my first sprint tri in May. I’ll keep you updated how my swimming is going. Had my first swimming lesson this lunchtime! Ok, I’m not starting from scratch, I can swim, just not very effectively or far (I worked really hard a couple of years ago to be able to do the 200m required for PADI diving certification). Concentrating on improving my front crawl and I know I have a lot of work to do. Plan to do the Windsor Tri, sprint distance in June this year. So, is a 750m open water swim in 5 months time feasible do you think? Any advice appreciated. cheers Rob

Yes, please do. Its good to hear that theres other novice lurkers on the group Second lesson at lunchtime today! Have been practising and feel that I have defnately improved over this past week. I’ll let you know how it goes. cheers Rob

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hey Rob, I’m a bit of a newbie/lurker here as I have only recently made the decision to do a Try-A-Tri in May. I, too, am starting not quite from scratch, but need a lot of work. I have done the front crawl with the face out of the water for years, but after seeing triathletes (and swimmers, of course) putting their faces in the water for the exhale, I figured I should learn that in order to be most efficient. I’m also going to be starting private lessons soon, mainly to learn the front crawl properly, and to correct my technique on other strokes if necessary. I’m decent (tho’ self-taught) at the side stroke, breast stroke, and various back strokes and crawl. Distance-wise, I can nearly do the race distance now using these other strokes, but am not wasting my time doing the front crawl improperly any longer… I’ll wait for the lessons. There are many of us in the same boat here, Cam — Had my first swimming lesson this lunchtime! Ok, I’m not starting from scratch, I can swim, just not very effectively or far (I worked really hard a couple of years ago to be able to do the 200m required for PADI diving certification). Concentrating on improving my front crawl and I know I have a lot of work to do. Plan to do the Windsor Tri, sprint distance in June this year. So, is a 750m open water swim in 5 months time feasible do you think? Any advice appreciated. cheers Rob

I can do the exhaling underwater bit. Good luck anyway – its been something I’ve been meaning to do for a couple of years now  (sort out my swimming I mean) and am glad I have finally motivated myself to do it. cheers Rob

Response:

Rob, I’m in the same position as you, I can swim 25yd front crawl then I’m out of breath. I’m aiming for my first sprint tri in May. I’ll keep you updated how my swimming is going. You guys have more than enough time.  I started swimming late in February last year for a 2400m ocean swim.  I too could go only 25-50 yards at a time and then I’d need to stop and breathe.  I went out about every 5 days and swam 1000-2000m and within 2 months, I had built up my endurance to swim it nearly non stop, with a 15 sec breather every 400yards.   Just keep swimming, and stop when you have to.  I give people the same suggestions when they start running – go 3 miles, and whenever you need to stop and walk for 20 seconds, then start running again.

Cool, good to hear its feasible anyway! Thats exactly how I started running – I used to do three miles three times a week when I first started, and I used to have to stop for a breather every now and again.  There was a very small hill (and I mean small) less than a mile from my flat, and I very clearly remember having to stop on it, and this very drunk guy shouting ‘encouragement’ at me.  Its amazing when I think back to how unfit I was! cheers Rob

Response:

I can do the exhaling underwater bit. Good luck anyway – its been something I’ve been meaning to do for a couple of years now  (sort out my swimming I mean) and am glad I have finally motivated myself to do it. cheers Rob

likewise… although i’ve been pretty much a non-swimmer for most of my life. after i saw my daughter enjoying and doing so well at her swim classes, it got me to thinking…. i should do this too! best of luck to you too, Cam

Response:

scratch, but need a lot of work. I have done the front crawl with the face out of the water for years, but after seeing triathletes (and swimmers, of course) putting their faces in the water for the exhale, I figured I should learn that in order to be most efficient. Definitely want to do so – face out is much more tiring.   For racing purposes, you don’t need to worry about other strokes, unless you want a rest stroke for the very long swims.

in my case i may need another stroke for a bit of a rest here and there, depending on how proficient i become at the front crawl in the next few months. thanks… Cam

Response:

<snip offer of training in Canada I meant Windsor, UK! I live in Wimbledon, London.  

Yes, but the swim over to Ontario will do wonders for your swimming stamina… Iain

Response:

Heck, if I would have know you were a Brit I would of used a whole different line of slander. Even though the Brits aren’t Americans like the Canadians, they are still OK. When I saw them playing the Star Spangled Banner (our national anthem) at the changing of the guard in honor of the dead from the WTC I was moved and felt a real kinship. Since then I think we have both kick some Al Quida ass. We have reduced them from taking multiple planes at a time to sending some guy with exploding shoes who can’t get the the fricken fuse lit. And you can trust that even though the shoe man was a Brit it means nothing to us. You guys are the best. Heck we have our own Taliboy. BW P.S. I like to use "heck" and "big ole" as much as possible to prove I’m an Merican. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – What?!!! Canadians can swim in the winter? I thought even the indoor pools froze over. Seriously, I did my first with about the same amount of training time. You won’t have any problem if you’re diligent in training. I did an international (Olympic) length which is a 1.5k (you’re Canadian, you can convert that to meters). I couldn’t swim 100 yards (that’s like a meter but shorter or longer) without totally losing my breath. I resorted to using a snorkel and mask until I had the muscle/lung tone to do the whole distance. Then I weaned myself off the snorkle by doing 100 with, 100 without and increasing the without each workout until I was free of it. I am 40+, 6′4, ~240 lbs (that’s like a a stones weight or a kilo or something but weighs less or more) and I have the swimming aerodynamics (or is it aquadynamics?) of a barge. One final note. If you hear a loud slap, slap, slap with each stroke; the lake is FROZEN! Your fellow American (Yes Canadians are Americans too!) BW ;^) Had my first swimming lesson this lunchtime! Ok, I’m not starting from scratch, I can swim, just not very effectively or far (I worked really hard a couple of years ago to be able to do the 200m required for PADI diving certification). Concentrating on improving my front crawl and I know I have a lot of work to do. Plan to do the Windsor Tri, sprint distance in June this year. So, is a 750m open water swim in 5 months time feasible do you think? Any advice appreciated. cheers Rob I meant Windsor, UK! I live in Wimbledon, London.  Hopefully somewhat warmer than canada at this time of year, though you do have to swim in the Thames for locals Tris which is not an attractive prospect. Anyway – thanks to both who replied for the advice.  I will check out the total immersion website, look for a swimming/tri club to train with and work hard at building my stamina! I’m glad to hear my schedule is feasible. Down the pool tomorrow (saturday) morning! cheers Rob

Response:

<snip offer of training in Canada I meant Windsor, UK! I live in Wimbledon, London.   Yes, but the swim over to Ontario will do wonders for your swimming stamina… Iain

It certainly would! Managed some time in the pool on saturday, was quite pleased with my progress! I’m starting to believe its a doable schedule! I didnt manage any huge distance, indeed I stopped for a short rest after every length (30m pool), but I did quite a few lengths, and found the new style a lot easier. cheers Rob

Response:

Rob, I’m in the same position as you, I can swim 25yd front crawl then I’m out of breath. I’m aiming for my first sprint tri in May. I’ll keep you updated how my swimming is going.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Had my first swimming lesson this lunchtime! Ok, I’m not starting from scratch, I can swim, just not very effectively or far (I worked really hard a couple of years ago to be able to do the 200m required for PADI diving certification). Concentrating on improving my front crawl and I know I have a lot of work to do. Plan to do the Windsor Tri, sprint distance in June this year. So, is a 750m open water swim in 5 months time feasible do you think? Any advice appreciated. cheers Rob

Response:

Rob, I’m in the same position as you, I can swim 25yd front crawl then I’m out of breath. I’m aiming for my first sprint tri in May. I’ll keep you updated how my swimming is going.

You guys have more than enough time.  I started swimming late in February last year for a 2400m ocean swim.  I too could go only 25-50 yards at a time and then I’d need to stop and breathe.  I went out about every 5 days and swam 1000-2000m and within 2 months, I had built up my endurance to swim it nearly non stop, with a 15 sec breather every 400yards.   Just keep swimming, and stop when you have to.  I give people the same suggestions when they start running – go 3 miles, and whenever you need to stop and walk for 20 seconds, then start running again.   — Jason O’Rourke www.jor.com

Response:

What?!!! Canadians can swim in the winter? I thought even the indoor pools froze over. Seriously, I did my first with about the same amount of training time. You won’t have any problem if you’re diligent in training. I did an international (Olympic) length which is a 1.5k (you’re Canadian, you can convert that to meters). I couldn’t swim 100 yards (that’s like a meter but shorter or longer) without totally losing my breath. I resorted to using a snorkel and mask until I had the muscle/lung tone to do the whole distance. Then I weaned myself off the snorkle by doing 100 with, 100 without and increasing the without each workout until I was free of it. I am 40+, 6′4, ~240 lbs (that’s like a a stones weight or a kilo or something but weighs less or more) and I have the swimming aerodynamics (or is it aquadynamics?) of a barge. One final note. If you hear a loud slap, slap, slap with each stroke; the lake is FROZEN! Your fellow American (Yes Canadians are Americans too!) BW ;^) – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Had my first swimming lesson this lunchtime! Ok, I’m not starting from scratch, I can swim, just not very effectively or far (I worked really hard a couple of years ago to be able to do the 200m required for PADI diving certification). Concentrating on improving my front crawl and I know I have a lot of work to do. Plan to do the Windsor Tri, sprint distance in June this year. So, is a 750m open water swim in 5 months time feasible do you think? Any advice appreciated. cheers Rob

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – What?!!! Canadians can swim in the winter? I thought even the indoor pools froze over. Seriously, I did my first with about the same amount of training time. You won’t have any problem if you’re diligent in training. I did an international (Olympic) length which is a 1.5k (you’re Canadian, you can convert that to meters). I couldn’t swim 100 yards (that’s like a meter but shorter or longer) without totally losing my breath. I resorted to using a snorkel and mask until I had the muscle/lung tone to do the whole distance. Then I weaned myself off the snorkle by doing 100 with, 100 without and increasing the without each workout until I was free of it. I am 40+, 6′4, ~240 lbs (that’s like a a stones weight or a kilo or something but weighs less or more) and I have the swimming aerodynamics (or is it aquadynamics?) of a barge. One final note. If you hear a loud slap, slap, slap with each stroke; the lake is FROZEN! Your fellow American (Yes Canadians are Americans too!) BW ;^) Had my first swimming lesson this lunchtime! Ok, I’m not starting from scratch, I can swim, just not very effectively or far (I worked really hard a couple of years ago to be able to do the 200m required for PADI diving certification). Concentrating on improving my front crawl and I know I have a lot of work to do. Plan to do the Windsor Tri, sprint distance in June this year. So, is a 750m open water swim in 5 months time feasible do you think? Any advice appreciated. cheers Rob

I meant Windsor, UK! I live in Wimbledon, London.  Hopefully somewhat warmer than canada at this time of year, though you do have to swim in the Thames for locals Tris which is not an attractive prospect. Anyway – thanks to both who replied for the advice.  I will check out the total immersion website, look for a swimming/tri club to train with and work hard at building my stamina! I’m glad to hear my schedule is feasible. Down the pool tomorrow (saturday) morning! cheers Rob

Response:

Hi Rob, Sounds like you are starting with the most important aspect of swimming technique!  Glad to hear you are taking lessons.    For more info on swim technique you should check out the Total Immersion website at www.totalimmersion.net.     I would suggest you finish off this set of lessons and then you should find a masters group to swim with.  do you live in the Windsor area?   if so I know a few groups of people who are training for tris there that you could hook up with.    of if you are closer to London, we have at a triathlon training group here in London Ontario.  if details. Happy Laps!

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Had my first swimming lesson this lunchtime! Ok, I’m not starting from scratch, I can swim, just not very effectively or far (I worked really hard a couple of years ago to be able to do the 200m required for PADI diving certification). Concentrating on improving my front crawl and I know I have a lot of work to do. Plan to do the Windsor Tri, sprint distance in June this year. So, is a 750m open water swim in 5 months time feasible do you think? Any advice appreciated. cheers Rob

Response:

Had my first swimming lesson this lunchtime! Ok, I’m not starting from scratch, I can swim, just not very effectively or far (I worked really hard a couple of years ago to be able to do the 200m required for PADI diving certification). Concentrating on improving my front crawl and I know I have a lot of work to do. Plan to do the Windsor Tri, sprint distance in June this year. So, is a 750m open water swim in 5 months time feasible do you think? Any advice appreciated. cheers Rob

Response:

Question:

Ron- I’m not sure where you live, but reading between the lines I think it’s the SF Bay Area???…Regarding your swimming, I’m a rank newbie (see my earlier post), BUT I found an excellent swim coach in the area. His name is Stuart can see a MAJOR change in my technique. I understand Cathy Morgan is also using him to train for Ironman California next year. Go Cathy! A little bit about Stuart’s background. I may not have all this right because part of Stuart’s charm is that he is rather modest about his accomplishments and you kinda have to drag info out of him. 6 Ironmen including IMH. At one time held the swim record for IMC! 10th in the bike split, 15th overall. !!!! It’s nice having a swim coach I can also ask about my pace, nutrition, or bike. Stuart, like many accomplished athletes, is somewhat soft spoken, and has a mellow disposition that hides a tough competitor. He has taught swimming most of his life, from young kids, to masters. Having watched some masters workout, I can say he is unlike any coach I’ve seen. His main focus is on your stroke and technique rather than just swimming till you puke. He may also be able to help you with the dry heaves . Cheers, Tri-Stu Alamo, CA Next race "Tri-for-Real" Sept 19th – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Yours truly was one of the 120 or so participants of the inaugural Bethel Island Triathlon, held this last Saturday the 28th of August. I decided at the last minute to run the race and so found myself blinking into a rising sun, heading towards the Sacramento Delta. The directions I

Question:

Recently posted a question regarding the best watch, and today am wanting a suggestion or two regarding most recommended book for training for a newbie triathlete. Appreciate all recommendations… ps. what is a decent bike model/type i might consider to start with? thanks all…happy holidays.

Response:

The Total Triathlon Almanac-4 by Tony Svensson is a good book and training log. It has a broad range of information, does not get overly technical, and is easy to follow. The previous editions are also good. They cover similar topics, but each varies. Good luck and welcome to triathlon life. Tom Murphy San Diego, CA – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Recently posted a question regarding the best watch, and today am wanting a suggestion or two regarding most recommended book for training for a newbie triathlete. Appreciate all recommendations… ps. what is a decent bike model/type i might consider to start with? thanks all…happy holidays.

Response:

SERIOUS training by Sleamaker and Browning.  Joe Friel has a new book out (relatively new) that I have on my desk but have not perused—-his work is usually good. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Recently posted a question regarding the best watch, and today am wanting a suggestion or two regarding most recommended book for training for a newbie triathlete. Appreciate all recommendations… ps. what is a decent bike model/type i might consider to start with? thanks all…happy holidays.

Response:

Hi! I just bought the Triathlete’s Training Bible by Joe Friel. This book is the one I was waiting for. With this book you’ll be able to plan your training for the whole year and for every week (with a lot of sample workouts). Check http://www.stevenscreek.com/books/ or at amazon.com. Fred Recently posted a question regarding the best watch, and today am wanting a suggestion or two regarding most recommended book for training for a newbie triathlete. Appreciate all recommendations… ps. what is a decent bike model/type i might consider to start with? thanks all…happy holidays.

– Frederic

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Response:

Check out the online bookstore at: www.womensmultisport.com/bookstore.htm there  –are several choices – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Recently posted a question regarding the best watch, and today am wanting a suggestion or two regarding most recommended book for training for a newbie triathlete. Appreciate all recommendations… ps. what is a decent bike model/type i might consider to start with? thanks all…happy holidays.

Response:

I’d highly recommend the book "Triathlon, Achieving Your Personal Best" by Rod Cedardo.  It gets right to the mechanics of the three disciplines, covering bio-mechanics, dietary needs, injury prevention, and recognition of the need for rest and recovery.

Response:

I’d just like to second this nomination (The Triathlete’s Training Bible). I just picked it up and it seems to be VERY comprehensive. I’d recommend a few  books that I got last year when I started, but this book, by Friel, seems to include most all that info (plus some) and is more up-to-date. -Kevin "True realism consists in revealing the surprising things which habit keeps covered and prevents us from seeing." Jean Cocteau

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Hi! I just bought the Triathlete’s Training Bible by Joe Friel. This book is the one I was waiting for. With this book you’ll be able to plan your training for the whole year and for every week (with a lot of sample workouts). Check http://www.stevenscreek.com/books/ or at amazon.com. Fred Recently posted a question regarding the best watch, and today am wanting a suggestion or two regarding most recommended book for training for a newbie triathlete. Appreciate all recommendations… ps. what is a decent bike model/type i might consider to start with? thanks all…happy holidays. — Frederic

Response:

Question:

Could someone please suggest the best web sites for: 1) finding the most extensive triathlon results, and 2) the most extensive calendar of triathlons

here’s some of my favorite’s http://www.coolrunning.com http://www.cftsommersports.com http://www.usatriathlon.org/ http://www.ziplink.net/~brianj http://www.firm-racing.cnchost.com/ http://www.nytc.org/ Tim Hignett Buaidh No Bas http://members.aol.com/hignett/index.html

Response:

Could someone please suggest the best web sites for: 1) finding the most extensive triathlon results, and 2) the most extensive calendar of triathlons

Well, for results, you can try my not-quite-ready-for-prime-time (but nearly) http://www.triathloncentral.com/rpdir/main/s_races_chron Thanks, Katherine Williams

Response:

Lee,      This one is high on my list (http://www.extremetri.com/home.html) for 1) and 2). Steve Bean

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Could someone please suggest the best web sites for: 1) finding the most extensive triathlon results, and 2) the most extensive calendar of triathlons Any help would be deeply appreciated. Lee

Response:

Could someone please suggest the best web sites for: 1) finding the most extensive triathlon results, and 2) the most extensive calendar of triathlons Any help would be deeply appreciated. Lee

Response:

Question:

I am doing Wilkes-Barre Triathlon (half iron) in August for the first time. Having never done the course before I have 2 questions. Is using a disc o.k. for the bike course and  is the water temp usually cool enough for wetsuits to be allowed. thanks, Tom

Response:

The bike goes through the farm lands and woodlands so there is not much of a problem with cross winds. The disk should be ok. Well, I am speaking of the short course. I don’t know where the half goes so maybe bring both sets of wheels and ride it the day before to decide. The water temp is usually cold enough for wetsuits. Have fun. Cathy – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -I am doing Wilkes-Barre Triathlon (half iron) in August for the first time. Having never done the course before I have 2 questions. Is using a disc o.k. for the bike course and  is the water temp usually cool enough for wetsuits to be allowed. thanks, Tom

Response:

Question:

Here are the pro results: The Bally Total Fitness U.S. Triathlon Series July 5, Madison, Wisconsin 1. Nick Radkewich (Colorado Springs, Colo.), 1:51:21 2. Gilberto Gonzalez (VEN), 1:52:01 3. Alec Rukosuev (Apopka, Fla.), 1:52:33 4. Joe Umphenour (Bellevue, Wash.), 1:52:42 5. Michael Smedley (Colorado Springs, Colo.), 1:52:57 6. Abe Rogers (Burlington, Vt.), 1:53:01 7. Kevin Carter (Silver Spring, Md.), 1:53:16 8. Garrett McCarthy (Louisville, Colo.), 1:53:31 9. Marcel Vifian (Lawrence, Kans.), 1:53:44 10. Matias Brain (CHI), 1:53:58 11. Simon Whitfield (CAN), 1:54:07 12. Douglas Friman (Colorado Springs, Colo.), 1:54:20 13. Andrew Kelsey (Danville, Calif.), 1:55:08 14. Mark Bates (CAN), 1:55:11 15. Ryan Bolton (Boulder, Colo.), 1:55:48 16. Victor Plata (San Luis Obispo, Calif.), 1:56:35 17. Erik Burgan (Carlsbad, Calif.), 1:56:38 18. Virgilio De Cagticho (BRA), 1:57:09 19. Leandro Macedo (BRA), 1:57:10 20. Victor Perini (Cordova, Tenn.), 1:57:22 21. Derek Mitchum (Laramie, Wyo.), 1:58:48 22. Raul Lemir (ARG), 1:59:07 23. Darren Wood (Carlsbad, Calif.), 1:59:48 24. Marcin Wedlarski (Vernon Hills, Ill.), 1:59:52 25. Jase Smith (Pensacola, Fla.), 2:00:23 26. Patrick Brown (Boulder, Colo.), 2:03:20 27. Greg Thompson (Carlsbad, Calif.), 2:05:04 28. Nigel Wynter (JAM), 2:06:20 29. Paul White (CAN), 2:10:02 30. Kaley Parkinson (San Diego, Calif.), 2:10:21 31. Graham Daniel (RSA), 2:12:01 32. Andrew Holton (Galloway, Ohio, 2:13:37 33. David Greenfield (CAN), 2:14:14 DNFs included Blaire Choate, Dave Harju (CAN) and some others. Women 1. Barb Lindquist (Wilson, Wyo.), 2:03:20 2. Martha Sorensen (West Chesterfield, Mass.), 2:04:33 3. Maryellen Powers (Dover, N.H.), 2:04:58 4. Susan Bartholomew (Littleton, Colo.), 2:04:58 5. Jennifer Gutierrez (Greenwood Village, Colo.), 2:05:26 6. Gail Laurence (Manitou Springs, Colo.), 2:05:44 7. Sian Welch (Encinitas, Calif.), 2:05:57 8. Siri Lindley (Niwot, Colo.), 2:06:14 9. Laura Reback (Colorado Springs, Colo.), 2:06:41 10. Sharon Donnelly (CAN), 2:07:04 11. Angela Milne (AUS), 2:07:05 12. Susanne Martineau (Colorado Springs, Colo.), 2:07:24 13. Pamela Birsinger (Atlanta, Ga.), 2:07:36 14. Becky Gibbs (Minnetonka, Minn.), 2:07:39 15. Gina Derks (Miami, Fla.), 2:08:07 16. Lori-Lynn Leach (CAN), 2:08:15 17. Sharon Knecht (Westlake, Ohio), 2:12:57 18. Alison Hayden (Tampa, Fla.), 2:13:43 19. Lauren Jensen (New Berlin, Wis.), 2:15:19 20. Kelli Montgomery (Wallingford, Conn.), 2:16:07 21. Amy Hollingsworth (Stratton Mountain, Vt.), 2:19:03 22. Agnes Eppers (BOL), 2:20:43. DNFs included Carol Montgomery (CAN) and some others.

Response:

Keith, Try checking www.lifestylesports.com/wimultisport a little later today. QR or that site will probably have them listed by tonight. Best, Mark Mannebach

] Insidetri has some results and a race story at: http://www.greatoutdoors.com/insidetri/thisjustin/index.htm. Ken Ken Parker Runner’s Web A running & triathlon resource site. http://www.runnersweb.com/running.html

Response:

CHECK OUT http://www.doitsports.com/triathlon/usts/results.html Happy tri-ing – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Keith, Try checking www.lifestylesports.com/wimultisport a little later today. QR or that site will probably have them listed by tonight. Best, Mark Mannebach ] Insidetri has some results and a race story at: http://www.greatoutdoors.com/insidetri/thisjustin/index.htm. Ken Ken Parker Runner’s Web A running & triathlon resource site. http://www.runnersweb.com/running.html

Response:

I am looking for Madison USTS results.  QR does not seem to be doing a very good job at posting results on their web site. Thanks, Keith A. Folske

Response:

Keith, Try checking www.lifestylesports.com/wimultisport a little later today. QR or that site will probably have them listed by tonight. Best, Mark Mannebach

Response:

Question:

I think, for those who were at Columbia Age Group Nationals, that this is what we drank during the race?

Yes it was, but does anyone know where we can purchase this to use and get used to? Mike Plumb

Response:

It can be ordered or questions asked about it through a toll free number: 800 371 6660 Steve Locke USA Triathlon

Response:

The product is Race Day and it can be ordered by calling 1-888-459-2376. For faster service either leave a message stating you need it before an upcoming race or call 1-703-442-0019 to place an immediate order. Tom Cox – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I think, for those who were at Columbia Age Group Nationals, that this is what we drank during the race? Yes it was, but does anyone know where we can purchase this to use and get used to? Mike Plumb

Response:

Yes the  product  on the course at Columbia was Race Day and will be used in Florida.  It can be ordered by calling 1-888-459-2376.  Say you need to get some in time for Florida for faster service. Tom Cox – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – (CFT SPORTS) writes: Race Day will be the official fluid replacement drink for the 7th Annual Great Floridian Triathlon.  Race Day is also the official fluid replacement drink for USA Triathlon.   I think, for those who were at Columbia Age Group Nationals, that this is what we drank during the race? Cathy Corning

Response:

Question:

I finally recieved my Vineman packet yesterday.  I called Raceday, the beverage supplier for the race, to try ad obtain samples to make sure it sat with my GI tract.  The guy at Raceday said they only sell biug vats to the actual race (enough to make something like 16 gallons, I think it was, although I may still have been delusional at the time).  Anyway, he said it’s pretty cross-tolerant with Gatorade. The Bertha Gary P. Chimes MD/PhD Student

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I finally recieved my Vineman packet yesterday.  I called Raceday, the beverage supplier for the race, to try ad obtain samples to make sure it sat with my GI tract.  The guy at Raceday said they only sell biug vats to the actual race (enough to make something like 16 gallons, I think it was, although I may still have been delusional at the time).  Anyway, he said it’s pretty cross-tolerant with Gatorade.

I had stomach cramps most of the way through Wildflower.  Later, after I experimented with different combos of drinks, bars and gels during workouts, I figured out that it was because I had switched from Apple-flavored Cytomax to Orange-flavored Cytomax.  The difference between the two is that Orange Cytomax contains various herbal stimulants that don’t sit well with my system.  I had used the Orange Cytomax exactly once before the race — not enough to know if it would work for me or not. I learned once again that one of the unbreakable rules of triathlon is "nothing new on race day."  Even if it’s called Race Day. I’m sticking with Cytomax, Power Gel, VO2 Max & Power Bars, and water at Vineman.  It’s just going to take a little extra planning. The Carmel Group "Certainly the game is rigged. Don’t let that stop you; if you don’t bet, you can’t win."  R.A.H.

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I learned once again that one of the unbreakable rules of triathlon is "nothing new on race day."  Even if it’s called Race Day. I’m sticking with Cytomax, Power Gel, VO2 Max & Power Bars, and water at Vineman.  It’s just going to take a little extra planning. The Carmel Group "Certainly the game is rigged. Don’t let that stop you; if you don’t bet, you can’t win."  R.A.H.

Full Vineman participants: The Vineman doesn’t have a formal "special needs" bag handoff station, so here’s my suggestion if you want to stick to your food formulae: Get a friend to meet you at the mile 50 aid station and have him/her hand you a bag.  This is legal in this race.  It has to be at one of the aid stations, and be sure that they stay out of the way (although my dad ended up helping other riders with bottle handoffs). But it was wonderful getting two icey cold Cytomax bottles and other goodies for the next 62 miles ahead. One more piece of advice:  drink the Pepsi on the run!  I wish I’d known how valuable it can be earlier Good luck in what should be a great race. Cheers, Vaughn — Vaughn Cooper Center for Microbial Ecology, Michigan State University East Lansing MI 48824 (517) 353-3953/3955 voice/fax

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Race Day is now available in 2.5 gallon pouches.  This is enough to fill 16-20 water bottles.  Please call 1-888-459-2376 to place an order.  Coming soon retail sized foil pouches, and Pro Enhancer a gm of choline in a 4 oz. shot.  Look for us at Vineman, National City, and Columbia MD.and F.I.R.M events in New England, among other races. Tom Cox InterNutria – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I finally recieved my Vineman packet yesterday.  I called Raceday, the beverage supplier for the race, to try ad obtain samples to make sure it sat with my GI tract.  The guy at Raceday said they only sell biug vats to the actual race (enough to make something like 16 gallons, I think it was, although I may still have been delusional at the time).  Anyway, he said it’s pretty cross-tolerant with Gatorade. The Bertha Gary P. Chimes MD/PhD Student

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Race Day is now available in 2.5 gallon pouches.  This is enough to fill 16-20 water bottles.  Please call 1-888-459-2376 to place an order. Coming soon retail sized foil pouches, and Pro Enhancer a gm of choline in a 4 oz. shot.  Look for us at Vineman, National City, and Columbia MD.and F.I.R.M events in New England, among other races. Tom Cox InterNutria

What I fail to understand is that a NEW product is going to be sprung on us, if WE so desire to use it, but the sponsor could have easily sent us a pouch or two ahead of time so we could determine if our bodies would accept/reject…we could have received this information with our registration packet…2.5 gallon puches are quite large…do you make the individual, or is the 2.5 gallon for group rides? so where are my samples? does is come in more than one flavor ???

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Question:

There is a publication called "Windy City Sports" that is available in the Chicago area.  I also have a copy of "Amateur Athlete" with an extensive listing (www.runningnetwork.com/ChicagoAA).  I haven’t checked their web page, but it might list several.  Their "annual events issue" is great. There is also a copy triathlon web sites.  Check WWW.Yahoo.com and you can come up with some listings. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I just read the post regarding the Crystal Lake series being cancelled Does anyone have info on other races in the area?  I’m fairly new to the area (Lake Geneva) and don’t really know where to look for race listings. Any help would be appreciated as I am trying to set up a schedule for the spring and summer (duathlons preferred).  If you know of any races, please let me know.  Thanks.  Tom Larwa

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I just read the post regarding the Crystal Lake series being cancelled Does anyone have info on other races in the area?  I’m fairly new to the area (Lake Geneva) and don’t really know where to look for race listings.

The best source is Windy City Sports.  Their annual index went out a little over a month ago, so it’s probably hard to find now. The Amateur Athlete also has an annual index, which I noticed our Y still has.  Even if you can’t find the annual indexes, the monthly versions of both publications have good listings.  You can find both of them in places like bike shops, YMCAs, outdoor stores, etc.   Any help would be appreciated as I am trying to set up a schedule for the spring and summer (duathlons preferred).  If you know of any races, please let me know.  Thanks.  Tom Larwa

If I remember correctly, there aren’t too many duathlons while the weather is nice – they are mostly in the spring and fall. — Dan Reiley, Ph.D.     Bell Labs       Naperville, IL

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I just read the post regarding the Crystal Lake series being cancelled Does anyone have info on other races in the area?  I’m fairly new to the area (Lake Geneva) and don’t really know where to look for race listings. Any help would be appreciated as I am trying to set up a schedule for the spring and summer (duathlons preferred).  If you know of any races, please let me know.  Thanks.  Tom Larwa

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Question:

: : As a beginner triathlete I would appreciate any help in this department. : : TECHNIQUE…TECHNIQUE…TECHNIQUE : : Work on technique as much as possible. Once you have sound technique : strength speed and endurance will come by (almost) easily. … : While I’m not disagreeing with you by any means (well maybe a little), PBS : had an interesting show on a while back when Mark Spitz was trying to make : his comeback.  They were talking to the flume swim analysts at the Olympic : training center and they commented the Mark Spitz had the best technique : of anyone they’ve ever tested.  However, they thought even in his hayday, : Mark couldn’t compete with the current world-class swimmers because he : lacked the STRENGTH they had.  They went on in conclusion to say that : strength is much more of a factor than originally thought. : Now many coaches may disagree with this assessment, but it definitely is : an interesting perspective on WORLD-CLASS swimmers.  For us mere mortals, : however; it still is TECHNIQUE, TECHNIQUE, TECHNIQUE! : Pat I would agree that you do have to have more strength than I alluded to in my previous post. But when I know that I have to bike and run after the swim I want to come out of the water as fresh as possible. The best way to do this is to use as little energy as possible in the swim. That means being as efficient as possible in the water which leads back to technique. If I want to sprint, sure strength may overcome some technical flaws, but if you are going to swim 1.5-4 k you want to glide and use as little energy as possible. THus I would again emphasize that for a triathlete, especially a beginner emphasizing sound technique is much more valuable than emphasizing strength. : Hey Pat, : I agree with the mere mortal comment, I think we "mortals" have to realize : that what Pros do is not necessarily the best thing for us.  Usually when : beginning a sport, technique is the most important element, strength and : conditioning comes later.  Just a thought to avoid doing work! I would agree with this assessment. If you have a lot of power but poor technique you will tire easily. Whereas if you have good technique you will move with greater ease through the water. To do well in triathlons of course you must have both power and technique. What I would counsel any begining triathlete is to emphasize technique first and foremost. Once you have sound technique you can develop power and speed efficiently. If you have power and speed first it will be much more difficult to develop sound technique later. Another reason I would say emphasize technique first is to avoid repetitive use injuries, to some extent. If you have a lot of power and strength and bad technique, once you start doing 3-4 k workouts you may be putting a lot of strain on the wrong muscles for swimming. After a while this could lead to nagging injuries, that MAY be avoided with better technique. Especially if you are a new swimmer you have neither strength nor technique for swimming. With the correct technique you may still have sore shoulders but you won’t be putting any UNDUE strain on the muscles or joints. Cheers. Dave

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As a beginner triathlete I would appreciate any help in this department.

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: As a beginner triathlete I would appreciate any help in this department. TECHNIQUE…TECHNIQUE…TECHNIQUE Work on technique as much as possible. Once you have sound technique strength speed and endurance will come by (almost) easily. If you don’t have sound technique you could fall into bad habits that are not easy to correct and may give you the impression that you are going slower and are weaker in the pool once you do try to obtain the correct technique.  Good technique can also help compensate for other shortcomings. Cheers. Dave.

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: As a beginner triathlete I would appreciate any help in this department. TECHNIQUE…TECHNIQUE…TECHNIQUE

Work on technique as much as possible. Once you have sound technique

strength speed and endurance will come by (almost) easily. If you don’t have sound technique you could fall into bad habits that are not easy to correct and may give you the impression that you are going slower and are weaker in the pool once you do try to obtain the correct technique.  Good technique

can also help compensate for other shortcomings.

I think Dave forgot to mention that "technique" is important … -Rolf — Rolf Arands, Ph.D.          |                             |

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: As a beginner triathlete I would appreciate any help in this department. TECHNIQUE…TECHNIQUE…TECHNIQUE Work on technique as much as possible. Once you have sound technique strength speed and endurance will come by (almost) easily. …

While I’m not disagreeing with you by any means (well maybe a little), PBS had an interesting show on a while back when Mark Spitz was trying to make his comeback.  They were talking to the flume swim analysts at the Olympic training center and they commented the Mark Spitz had the best technique of anyone they’ve ever tested.  However, they thought even in his hayday, Mark couldn’t compete with the current world-class swimmers because he lacked the STRENGTH they had.  They went on in conclusion to say that strength is much more of a factor than originally thought. Now many coaches may disagree with this assessment, but it definitely is an interesting perspective on WORLD-CLASS swimmers.  For us mere mortals, however; it still is TECHNIQUE, TECHNIQUE, TECHNIQUE! Pat    W.Patrick Brug, Ph.D.  _-           -_    Los Alamos National Lab -__       __-                                       /    cis:      72410,3372        /  

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – : As a beginner triathlete I would appreciate any help in this department. TECHNIQUE…TECHNIQUE…TECHNIQUE Work on technique as much as possible. Once you have sound technique strength speed and endurance will come by (almost) easily. … While I’m not disagreeing with you by any means (well maybe a little), PBS had an interesting show on a while back when Mark Spitz was trying to make his comeback.  They were talking to the flume swim analysts at the Olympic training center and they commented the Mark Spitz had the best technique of anyone they’ve ever tested.  However, they thought even in his hayday, Mark couldn’t compete with the current world-class swimmers because he lacked the STRENGTH they had.  They went on in conclusion to say that strength is much more of a factor than originally thought. Now many coaches may disagree with this assessment, but it definitely is an interesting perspective on WORLD-CLASS swimmers.  For us mere mortals, however; it still is TECHNIQUE, TECHNIQUE, TECHNIQUE! Pat Hey Pat,

I agree with the mere mortal comment, I think we "mortals" have to realize that what Pros do is not necessarily the best thing for us.  Usually when beginning a sport, technique is the most important element, strength and conditioning comes later.  Just a thought to avoid doing work!

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