Question:

I’ve had mine for 3 yrs now and love it.  At 5′4" and 145 pounds I don’t think the frame will ever see it’s limitations.  The ride is smooth and the bike climbs like crazy.  Saying that I’ve never raced on the bike I use it only for training.   Brent

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Just an aside but, there is a beautiful red 500sci frame and fork brand new on E-bay right now. Jeff Richardson

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’ve had mine for 3 yrs now and love it.  At 5′4" and 145 pounds I don’t think the frame will ever see it’s limitations.  The ride is smooth and the bike climbs like crazy.  Saying that I’ve never raced on the bike I use it only for training. Brent

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Thinking of getting one of these – does anyone have any experience with this bike?  I do mostly olympic distance races with one 1/2 IM each year. Thanks

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Thinking of getting one of these – does anyone have any experience with this bike?  I do mostly olympic distance races with one 1/2 IM each year.

I have owned one for 6 years and have been happy with it.  Very versatile. You can set it up for road or triathlon.  The ride is typical carbon. Not as vertically compliant as you might suspect, (not nearly as much as a beam bike). Bottom bracket is actually fairly stiff.  ’Lifetime warranty to the original owner’ was another factor in my decision to buy it.  (Hate to spend that much money on a bike that the manufacturer won’t stand behind.)  The only problems are frame size (limited options), running a new front derailleur cable is a pain and paint that seems to chip easily.  Some of these problems may have been addressed in later models. Steve

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Warning: Hearsay evidence coming your way.   I’ve spoken to multiple people who weigh over 180 that say the bike just doesn’t hold up for bigger bodies (frame folds).  Check www.roadbikereview.com for user reviews.  Understand that Kestrel is easy to deal with when there are problems.  Might also check out Calfee (perhaps a little more investment, but no known frame integrity problems for heavier folks).  All points above obviously are moot if you’re a lighter body type. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Thinking of getting one of these – does anyone have any experience with this bike?  I do mostly olympic distance races with one 1/2 IM each year. I have owned one for 6 years and have been happy with it.  Very versatile. You can set it up for road or triathlon.  The ride is typical carbon. Not as vertically compliant as you might suspect, (not nearly as much as a beam bike). Bottom bracket is actually fairly stiff.  ’Lifetime warranty to the original owner’ was another factor in my decision to buy it.  (Hate to spend that much money on a bike that the manufacturer won’t stand behind.)  The only problems are frame size (limited options), running a new front derailleur cable is a pain and paint that seems to chip easily.  Some of these problems may have been addressed in later models. Steve

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Question:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – It seems to me I heard somewhere that BobMac wrote in article I have one that is worse than this: Back in 1995 or so in a (name-less on purpose) triathlon on the ) South Carolina coast, one of the aid stations (run mile 3?) started running out of all fluids, so they diluted what they had left with SEAWATER ! I was told that by mile 4 there were dozens of traithletes on their knees, puking. That first "world championship" triathlon in Nice (IIRC) where the organizers heard that most competitors were happy with half-strength gatorade? Half-strength means you use half as much water, right? Same result, except the triathletes with their own support organizations ran on, while the other were out in a hurry. On the off-chance that you’re serious, no, ‘half strength’ means half as much active ingredient per volume unit, or twice as much water as the directions call for.  No wonder people got sick.

Yeah, I know that. You know that. The people who organized the supposedly "world class" race…. didn’t know that. BobMac

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It seems to me I heard somewhere that BobMac wrote in article I have one that is worse than this: Back in 1995 or so in a (name-less on purpose) triathlon on the ) South Carolina coast, one of the aid stations (run mile 3?) started running out of all fluids, so they diluted what they had left with SEAWATER ! I was told that by mile 4 there were dozens of traithletes on their knees, puking. That first "world championship" triathlon in Nice (IIRC) where the organizers heard that most competitors were happy with half-strength gatorade? Half-strength means you use half as much water, right? Same result, except the triathletes with their own support organizations ran on, while the other were out in a hurry.

On the off-chance that you’re serious, no, ‘half strength’ means half as much active ingredient per volume unit, or twice as much water as the directions call for.  No wonder people got sick. — My new contact address is in Reply to: Don

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I have one that is worse than this: Back in 1995 or so in a (name-less on purpose) triathlon on the ) South Carolina coast, one of the aid stations (run mile 3?) started running out of all fluids, so they diluted what they had left with SEAWATER ! I was told that by mile 4 there were dozens of traithletes on their knees, puking. Got questions?  Get answers over the phone at Keen.com. Up to 100 minutes free! http://www.keen.com

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I’ve been in several races where garden hosewater (ie, reclaimed sewer water) has been passed out in a well-meaning but ill-advised effort to make up for supply shortages.  This is something I never really thought about.  A volunteer could put whatever they want into your drink and you would be hard pressed to find out who it was if the substance caused a reaction.  Yuck.  Seawater?  That’s just downright stupidity or colossal vindictiveness. Got questions?  Get answers over the phone at Keen.com. Up to 100 minutes free! http://www.keen.com

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Hmmmm…I wonder if it was the beer Freestate brews for the bicyclists?  Yum! http://freestatebrewing.com/ Damn, I miss Lawrence Kansas.  That was the most interesting place I’ve ever lived. -Matt

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I’ll have to second that Jeremy – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hmmmm…I wonder if it was the beer Freestate brews for the bicyclists? Yum! http://freestatebrewing.com/ Damn, I miss Lawrence Kansas.  That was the most interesting place I’ve ever lived. -Matt

Response:

I have one that is worse than this: Back in 1995 or so in a (name-less on purpose) triathlon on the ) South Carolina coast, one of the aid stations (run mile 3?) started running out of all fluids, so they diluted what they had left with SEAWATER ! I was told that by mile 4 there were dozens of traithletes on their knees, puking.

That first "world championship" triathlon in Nice (IIRC) where the organizers heard that most competitors were happy with half-strength gatorade? Half-strength means you use half as much water, right? Same result, except the triathletes with their own support organizations ran on, while the other were out in a hurry. BobMac Don’t get me started about French logic….

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The water station might have been an unofficial one. I’ve been in races where some screwballs thought it would be funny to hand beer to the runners. Where were they after the race?

It was official, more or less where the course map said it would be. Best regards, — Brian P. Baresch Lawrence, Kansas, USA Professional editing and proofreading

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Is that the 10k held out at Lone Star Lake?  From what I have heard that race has always been a mess.

It wasn’t at Lone Star, but it might be the same race; I’m not sure. It was certainly a mess. And someone told me last year was worse. <shudder Best regards, — Brian P. Baresch Lawrence, Kansas, USA Professional editing and proofreading

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drink that beer http://community.webtv.net/ultrajohn1/facialsallaround

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There is a race in Wausau, WI called Kimberly’s Ru that is a similar joke of a effort. But as the RD told me last year, "it’s all for charity."

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Whats wrong with you????? You do a little bit of running and you develop a sudden fear for beer? drink that beer http://community.webtv.net/ultrajohn1/facialsallaround

– Click here for Free Video!! http://www.gohip.com/free_video/

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Reggie, He couldn’t say for sure if it was beer.  remember: "the water tasted of alcohol — beer, I think, though someone else thought it might be vodka. Several runners smelled it before they had any; others spit it out." The worst part would be *not* knowing what it really was.  Heck if it were Miller lite I’d probably spit it out also!  ;-) Roger – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Whats wrong with you????? You do a little bit of running and you develop a sudden fear for beer? drink that beer http://community.webtv.net/ultrajohn1/facialsallaround — Click here for Free Video!! http://www.gohip.com/free_video/

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Is that the 10k held out at Lone Star Lake?  From what I have heard that race has always been a mess. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I thought I’d seen all the things that race organizers could do wrong (and they did a lot of them in this race), but this one surprised even me. At the second water station in the Governor’s Cup 10K, somewhere around mile 3 (the miles weren’t marked so I don’t know exactly), the water tasted of alcohol — beer, I think, though someone else thought it might be vodka. Several runners smelled it before they had any; others spit it out. I was pretty much wiped out and had it all the way down before it registered. This all came on top of a bunch of other serious screw-ups by the organizers: — The race started five minutes early while some runners were half a block away doing strides or stretching. The two-minute "penalty" may have cost me an age-group placing. — The miles weren’t marked well; I only saw one marker. — "Splits" were being read from stopwatches around the course, but they were at turns and intersections — in effect, placed at random. Not helpful at all. — Before reaching the finish line the runners had to make a loop around the parking lot. The loop was virtually unmarked, and it wasn’t on the course map provided with the race packet. I thought I was approaching the finish line (again, since the miles weren’t marked, I had no idea how far I’d run) but saw the narrow end of the chute was pointed toward me rather than away from me. I had to slow down and ask a race volunteer for directions. — The finish line ran out of water by the time I got there (50 minutes or so). Overall this was the worst job of putting on a race I’ve ever seen. (The Freedom Run 10K in Lenexa, Kansas, a few weeks ago was almost as bad.) Interestingly, there’s no race director listed in any of the race materials. Apparently no one wants to take responsibility. Best regards, — Brian P. Baresch Lawrence, Kansas, USA Professional editing and proofreading

Response:

I thought I’d seen all the things that race organizers could do wrong (and they did a lot of them in this race), but this one surprised even me. At the second water station in the Governor’s Cup 10K, somewhere around mile 3 (the miles weren’t marked so I don’t know exactly), the water tasted of alcohol — beer, I think, though someone else thought it might be vodka. Several runners smelled it before they had any; others spit it out. I was pretty much wiped out and had it all the way down before it registered. This all came on top of a bunch of other serious screw-ups by the [snip]

The water station might have been an unofficial one. I’ve been in races where some screwballs thought it would be funny to hand beer to the runners. Where were they after the race? — Terry R. McConnell   Mathematics/304B Carnegie/Syracuse, N.Y. 13244-1150

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I thought I’d seen all the things that race organizers could do wrong (and they did a lot of them in this race), but this one surprised even me. At the second water station in the Governor’s Cup 10K, somewhere around mile 3 (the miles weren’t marked so I don’t know exactly), the water tasted of alcohol — beer, I think, though someone else thought it might be vodka. Several runners smelled it before they had any; others spit it out. I was pretty much wiped out and had it all the way down before it registered. This all came on top of a bunch of other serious screw-ups by the organizers: — The race started five minutes early while some runners were half a block away doing strides or stretching. The two-minute "penalty" may have cost me an age-group placing. — The miles weren’t marked well; I only saw one marker. — "Splits" were being read from stopwatches around the course, but they were at turns and intersections — in effect, placed at random. Not helpful at all. — Before reaching the finish line the runners had to make a loop around the parking lot. The loop was virtually unmarked, and it wasn’t on the course map provided with the race packet. I thought I was approaching the finish line (again, since the miles weren’t marked, I had no idea how far I’d run) but saw the narrow end of the chute was pointed toward me rather than away from me. I had to slow down and ask a race volunteer for directions. — The finish line ran out of water by the time I got there (50 minutes or so). Overall this was the worst job of putting on a race I’ve ever seen. (The Freedom Run 10K in Lenexa, Kansas, a few weeks ago was almost as bad.) Interestingly, there’s no race director listed in any of the race materials. Apparently no one wants to take responsibility. Best regards, — Brian P. Baresch Lawrence, Kansas, USA Professional editing and proofreading

Response:

Brian, But would you do it again? I was in 1/2 marathon where they ran out of cups on all the water stops on the return trip.  The didn’t have any sports drink left for the slower runners.  Then they also ran out of Sports drink at the end right before I got back. They did manage to get some sports drink later, but I’d never seen the likes of it before and wasn’t about to test that stuff out so far from home.  Heck you couldn’t even see what the drink looked like because of the container it was in. As for why they ran out of cups, well the cups were so small, people would take two of them, and it was basically an out and back with a 4 block loop for the turn around.  So that means each water stop should have stocked at least 4 cups per runner, or bigger cups. I feel so sorry for the people at the water stops that were trying to help the people out and couldn’t. But would I do it again.  I sure would, but if I do, I’ll be carrying my own water and have Sports drink stored in my Vehicle.  It was a *one* sponsor race by the way, so that would explain the low budget to me. Roger – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I thought I’d seen all the things that race organizers could do wrong (and they did a lot of them in this race), but this one surprised even me. At the second water station in the Governor’s Cup 10K, somewhere around mile 3 (the miles weren’t marked so I don’t know exactly), the water tasted of alcohol — beer, I think, though someone else thought it might be vodka. Several runners smelled it before they had any; others spit it out. I was pretty much wiped out and had it all the way down before it registered. This all came on top of a bunch of other serious screw-ups by the organizers: — The race started five minutes early while some runners were half a block away doing strides or stretching. The two-minute "penalty" may have cost me an age-group placing. — The miles weren’t marked well; I only saw one marker. — "Splits" were being read from stopwatches around the course, but they were at turns and intersections — in effect, placed at random. Not helpful at all. — Before reaching the finish line the runners had to make a loop around the parking lot. The loop was virtually unmarked, and it wasn’t on the course map provided with the race packet. I thought I was approaching the finish line (again, since the miles weren’t marked, I had no idea how far I’d run) but saw the narrow end of the chute was pointed toward me rather than away from me. I had to slow down and ask a race volunteer for directions. — The finish line ran out of water by the time I got there (50 minutes or so). Overall this was the worst job of putting on a race I’ve ever seen. (The Freedom Run 10K in Lenexa, Kansas, a few weeks ago was almost as bad.) Interestingly, there’s no race director listed in any of the race materials. Apparently no one wants to take responsibility. Best regards, — Brian P. Baresch Lawrence, Kansas, USA Professional editing and proofreading

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Question:

Jurgen Zack’s effort was truely courageous–physically, mentally, and psychologically!!! It is much easier to finish second than to put oneself through all that he did to finish.  He showed the soul of true triathlete. -rjh

I agree.  One thing pretty unique about Zack’s position, versus a more average triathlete who physically falls apart during an IM, is that everyone has such expectations of Zack.  He was really in the spot light at a time when I don’t think anyone wants to be.  Seems like he must have his head really straight. Now, next year, maybe he’ll finally take the race. — Eric Pederson "You mean there’s a difference between ‘long, slow distance’ and  ’race pace’?"

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Jurgen Zack’s effort was truely courageous–physically, mentally, and psychologically!!! It is much easier to finish second than to put oneself through all that he did to finish.  He showed the soul of true triathlete. -rjh

I was looking back through my collection of IM videos the other day and discovered that I had kept the 1997 IM Europe tape… you know, the one in which Luc Van Lierde smashes the 8 hour barrier in 7:50:42, give or take a few seconds.  Guess who Luc passed only a mile from the finish and finished only about 1 minute back????  Do you remember?  It wasn’t Lothar Leder who first broke the 8 hour barrier the year before (he did finish in about 7:57) and it wasn’t Thomas Hellriegel (he was about 7:59).  It was Jurgen.  He put together one of the greatest IM races ever, yet few will remember his accomplishment! Jack Orsinger

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Jurgen Zack’s effort was truely courageous–physically, mentally, and psychologically!!! It is much easier to finish second than to put oneself through all that he did to finish.  He showed the soul of true triathlete. -rjh

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Question:

I was just surfing the website www.sydney2000.com and thier lead story is triathlon is out and summer biathlon is in. Summer biathlon will consist of a draft legal bike race(50 km) long, where each 10k the racers must stop and throw 5 baskets(simular to nba freethrows). Racers will be penalized for missed shots. the ITU is behind the inclusion of summer biathlon in sydney, there info can reached at www.Lesiscool.org Tim Hignett Buaidh No Bas -Seeking HQ GD and JGB tape trades,YLGM-

Response:

april foolI was just surfing the website www.sydney2000.com and thier lead story is<BR triathlon is out and summer biathlon is in. Summer biathlon will consist of a<BR draft legal bike race(50 km) long, where each 10k the racers must stop and<BR throw 5 baskets(simular to nba freethrows). Racers will be penalized for missed<BR shots. the ITU is behind the inclusion of summer biathlon in sydney, there info<BR can reached at www.Lesiscool.org

april fool

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<LYNNE HOLDS BACK THE ANGRY HORDES READY WITH STONES

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ROFL!

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Question:

My question is, how are the running and riding routes in the general area (mid-pennisula).

The definite source of information on training in this area is Lee Rudin’s web site: http://www.slip.net/~leeway/ — Steve Patt  Stevens Creek Software  The Athlete’s Diary & Bookstore  WWW: http://www.stevenscreek.com  FTP: ftp.stevenscreek.com  1-800-TA-DIARY

Response:

Chris, I’ll echo all the positive things that others have already said in response to your question.  I did notice though that you mentioned running and riding, not swimming.  If your major interest is duathlon, not triathlon, the local racing scene  is very thin.  There are only a few duathlons in the SF Bay Area now and none of them are USA Triathlon sanctioned. Jim Turner Menlo Park, CA

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Hi: I am considering taking a job transfer (IBM) to San Mateo, California. Currently I live in the Northeast…

Hi Chris! I just moved out here from Memphis – I live in San Francisco, but sometimes I work in Foster City which is next to San Mateo.  I have heard about the rides that Tribaby mentioned, but since I live in the City, I have been riding north to Marin County. Picture this; I leave my apartment about 5:45 am and ride to the Pacific ocean where I get this real nice tail wind as I ride towards the tip of the Peninsula.  I then enter the Presidio and a long clinb on my way to the Golden gate bridge.  There are moments when the ride is high on a cliff overlooking the Pacific with the bridge and the Marin headlands providing a focal point directly in front of me.  I reach the bridge and cross ( the south sidewalk is reserved for bikers only).  After the bridge, it is a long climb in the hills of the Marin headlands.  At my turnaround, I can see back to the bridge with the city behind it and of course the bay, Alcatraz, Angel Island, etc.  This is truely biker’s heaven! For swimming, I sometimes swim in the lagoon at Foster City, it is a little murky, but the temperatures are perfect.  I can get some good workouts there with some long uninterupted open water swims.  There is also bay swimming in the city for a special type of workout.  Of course the running is awesome – temperatures are perfect.  I like to run in the city for the hills, but if you like it flat, run along the bay in Foster City all the way thru Redwood shores by Oracle’s HDQ’s   There is a wide running/biking path there and it has 1/4 mile hash marks clearly painted for at least 3 miles. One more note.  Good luck finding a place to rent – it is very scarce!  I am glad I ended up in the city, but I would not have even looked up here unless there were no vacancies in the Peninsula.  I would start now by looking at the classifieds each day in the San Francisco Chronicle – it is on the internet at www.sfgate.com.  The classifieds are listed daily, if Mike in San Francisco

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I am looking for any and all opinions and information on this subject. I am considering taking a job transfer (IBM) to San Mateo, California. I have had much discussion with my new supervisor and the odds are pretty much a lock that they will make me an offer within 4 weeks. Currently I live in the Northeast and have quite a bit of freedom on where I run and ride. I am averaging about 150 miles bike and 35 miles running. I compete in Bill Fiske’s FIRM series and usually finish in the top 3 to top 5. My question is, how are the running and riding routes in the general area (mid-pennisula). I will be visiting within 2 weeks and obviously one of the deciding factors will be the training areas (I know that the weather will blow the doors away from the northeast.) Also, how is the race scene? Are there many races, etc. The nice thing about this area is that FIRM races are almost every weekend so you can get in 8-10 races through the season and still train efficiently.

Hi, Chris— Pardon me while I wax ecstatic about the San Francisco Peninsula where I have lived and trained all my life (except when I was at UC Berkeley).  I don’t know that you could find a more ideal place in the world to live and train.  Places to ride and run abound.   There are many Masters programs in the area.  Many open space preserves.  Beautiful hills and trails on which to run and ride. I don’t know where my pal Mike got the idea that there aren’t that many races out here, unless he just means races within 10 miles of San Mateo proper.  I manage to do a dozen races a year.  I live about 5 miles south of the City of San Mateo, in Redwood City, which is the San Mateo County Seat.  The longest I’ve driven to a race is about 3 hours, up to Bass Lake in the Sierra.  However, I can think of at least half a dozen events that occur here each year that are within an hour’s drive.  You’ve got everything from pure sprints to the Vineman Ironman. Cycling is a big sport out here, especially in San Mateo and Santa Clara counties.  Riding "to the coast" is a pretty standard training session on the weekends, and gives you a great workout as you climb about 1800 feet over the Santa Cruz mountains going over *and* coming back.  Roads are gorgeous without a lot of traffic. And places to run off road!  Well, let’s see:  Edgewood County Park, Huddart Park, the Stanford foothills (a.k.a. "the Dish"), Sawyer Camp Trail (a 6-mile recreation trail along the banks of Crystal Springs reservoir with mile markers and porta-johns), Rancho San Antonio Park, the Presidio in San Francisco, Corte Madera Open Space Preserve, Wunderlich Park, Arastradero Open Space Preserve….. In summary, I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.  To learn a little more about places to train in the area, check out Lee Rudin’s excellent San Francisco Bay Area Triathlon Training Sites Webpage:   http://www.slip.net/~leeway/ To learn more about races in Northern CA, check out my Web page: http://www-leland.stanford.edu/~brooksie Good luck! TriBaby — "’Be a terrific innovation if you could get your mind to stretch a little further than the next wise crack." "Y’know, I tried that once, but it didn’t snap back into place." —Katharine Hepburn & Eve Arden in "Stage Door" (1937)    

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Chris, (if this already posted, sorry, technical difficulties) Welcome!  I have several files for training in the San Mateo area. Please check out The Swim, The Run and The Bike. On the Links and Clubs page, there are links that are might also be of interest: Peninsula Trails Many people suggested the Marin Headlands-not exactly close, but well worth it-I just put up some new pictures. Look under The Run. Pen Velo Cycling Club-they have a casual and advanced ride at Sawyer camp on Sat and Sun at 8AM (right in your new backyard) The only thing casual I found about that ride was the warm up! But, the coaches are top notch and make you feel welcomed. They might be on the Northern CA cycle page, I can’t recall right offhand. You are in a great area, and you have many options being between the South Bay and the City. And as you can see by the posts, many knowledgeable people from RST who are very helpful. Good luck and enjoy! Lee Rudin San Francisco Bay Area Triathlon Training Sites http://www.slip.net/~leeway/

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Hi:             I am looking for any and all opinions and information on this subject. I am considering taking a job transfer (IBM) to San Mateo, California. I have had much discussion with my new supervisor and the odds are pretty much a lock that they will make me an offer within 4 weeks. Currently I live in the Northeast and have quite a bit of freedom on where I run and ride. I am averaging about 150 miles bike and 35 miles running. I compete in Bill Fiske’s FIRM series and usually finish in the top 3 to top 5. My question is, how are the running and riding routes in the general area (mid-pennisula). I will be visiting within 2 weeks and obviously one of the deciding factors will be the training areas (I know that the weather will blow the doors away from the northeast.) Also, how is the race scene? Are there many races, etc. The nice thing about this area is that FIRM races are almost every weekend so you can get in 8-10 races through the season and still train efficiently. I sincerely appreciate all the responses and look forward to getting as much information as I can so I can make a logical selection as to where I live. I know that triathlons are super important, so I want to make the right choice. Thanks again

Response:

Hi: I am considering taking a job transfer (IBM) to San Mateo, California. Currently I live in the Northeast…

You definitely want to get the scoop from TriBaby, Kurian Davis, and the rest of the RSTers out there in God’s Country.  You’ll find that most of the training venues are incredible, but you might have to survive a bit of traffic to break away into the foothills (depends upon where you live). As for racing, you’ll discover quickly that the races are much fewer and farther between than they are in the Northeast/Mid-Atlantic area.  At the risk of starting a quarrel (which I’ll do anyway, since I love ribbing our West Coast bretheren!), I think you’ll also agree that the sport is much bigger (more competitors & more races) on the East Coast than it is out West.  Not based on hard data, just empirical evidence (I’ve spent five years in both places). That said, however, you’ll definitely benefit from the surroundings: swim at Stanford’s Masters program, ride in the foothills along Skyline Drive, and get up to the Marin Headlands to do some trail running a couple times a month — you’ll certainly improve dramatically! Oh yeah, and see if you can pick up a better job once you arrive … Mike Llerandi

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Question:

I’ve mostly done sprint tri’s where I don’t worry about flats… but what are RST thoughts on carrying spares or patches during a longer 20+ mile race? Should I be hauling along a frame pump and spare tube? Should I consider using tubulars (and carry a spare) since they’re easier to change? (I have a set I got recently with a bike — already mounted and inflated.  Frankly, I’m not quite sure how one goes about attaching or detaching them… I understand glue is involved but for a quick race replacement not essential…?) Or should I just throw caution aside and think positive? Much obliged. -David Niskayuna, NY 12309                     (518) 387-5494

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Should I be hauling along a frame pump and spare tube? Or should I just throw caution aside and think positive? Much obliged. -David

    Personally I’ve always carried a pump and a spare tube with me on every race.  You have to decide how anal you are going to be.  :)  Is the teeny bit of extra weight on your bike is going to slow you down significantly?  I seriously doubt it, and I would much rather have the fun of finishing the race even if a flat has caused me to drop out of medal contention.  I have to admit though I seem to be in the minority of  triathletes.  You’d actually be surprised how fast you can change a clincher tire with a little practice.  I was real slow until I started working at a bike shop, now no sweat with a good swim and run I might still have a shot!  Remember why you are doing the race: are you looking to shave the miniscule weight of a pump and tube and save a few seconds or are you competing for the fun of the race?  (BTW the answer is the latter unless you are up for a sponsorship deal!:) ) – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Niskayuna, NY 12309                     (518) 387-5494

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’ve mostly done sprint tri’s where I don’t worry about flats… but what are RST thoughts on carrying spares or patches during a longer 20+ mile race? Should I be hauling along a frame pump and spare tube? Should I consider using tubulars (and carry a spare) since they’re easier to change? (I have a set I got recently with a bike — already mounted and inflated.  Frankly, I’m not quite sure how one goes about attaching or detaching them… I understand glue is involved but for a quick race replacement not essential…?) Or should I just throw caution aside and think positive? Much obliged. -David

There’s only one way to handle flats during a race:  cry profusely, then sulk at the awards ceremony.  Make sure to tell all your friends you where miles off the front before that giant beer bottle leap at your wheel… The best cure for flats is a healthy dose of prevention.  First, you must pay homage to the flat gods.  My suggestion is buying a new set of clinchers the week before your first race, especially if you haven’t changed them in a year or so.  That way you’ll have a nice, thin layer of rubber to protect you from glass and debris.  Second, inflate to the max pressure and watch out for big rocks and potholes.     As for races, if you’re racing to place in your age group, I’d suggest not bringing a spare unless it’s a half-ironman or longer.  Fixing a flat takes about 5-10 minutes (shorter if you actually practice) which will put you out of the money.  Tubulars can get really messy with the glue, and you really should "prep" a spare tubular by placing it on a rim with some glue beforehand.  Then again, if you race with really skinny clinchers (18-20mm thick), they can be very difficult to get off or on when you’re pressed for time.  And you must find and remove glass if its imbedded in a clincher, otherwise you’ll just flat again. The best solution for racing is to stick with whatever you’re used to.   If you train (and eventually get flats) on clinchers, stick with clinchers.  If you have some roadie background and have a nice set of light tubulars, use them for racing.  And if you plan on doing a half-ironman or ironman, practice changing you tire.  And never, NEVER say out load "I never flat during races."  I did that a couple of weeks ago at a road race in Massachusetts.  I was so sure I wouldn’t   flat I left my spares at home.  Sure enough, at mile 42 of a 67 mile race I hit a real big rock and rode home in the wheel truck. The flat gods are a ruthless lot. Joe Jankovsky

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You guys (and gals) must have beautiful roads to even consider racing without puncture repair gear.  In NZ (almost) everyone carries spares. I’ve only had a couple of flats during races – but it doesn’t cost much time to fix them – so – just keep racing.  I can’t think of anything worse than having to push a bike 5,10 or 15km back to transition in bike shoes or bare feet!!!   A little story from a NZ Half Ironman a few years ago.  One chap was carrying two tubular spares, had three punctures!!!  He was pushing the bike home when he passed a bike shop (closed on a Sunday morning), banged on the window when he saw someone inside and "borrowed" another tyre.  Finished the race and won a spot prize + a special "hard luck" prize.  (And probably beat me by an hour!) Regards Jeff Should I be hauling along a frame pump and spare tube? Or should I just throw caution aside and think positive? Much obliged. -David

– |At work:        Phone: +64-9-424 5388      Fax:    +64-21-785 097 | |   Program Development/Client Support      Mobile: +64-21-635 185 | |   Aspect Systems Ltd                                             | |   Specialists in software for Real Estate and Human Resources    | |At home:                                   Phone:  +64-9-424 0336 | |   Husband, Dad, Grandad                                          | |   Enthusiastic but slow triathlete                               | |   Justice of the Peace                                           | | This information is probably worth more than you paid for it     |

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Question:

Where is JJ

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Has anyone seen JJ ? or has he fallen off the face of the earth  I miss his postings.  MCMEAT1

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Has anyone seen JJ ? or has he fallen off the face of the earth  I miss his postings.  MCMEAT1

Let’s all welcome AOL newbie Peter Coulson (MCMEAT1), husband of world champ Michellie Jones ) to rst. That’s a bait, and I’m not biting.    ;-) — JJ Jeffrey Justice Oceanside, CA

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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Justice) writes: Has anyone seen JJ ? or has he fallen off the face of the earth  I miss his postings.  MCMEAT1 Let’s all welcome AOL newbie Peter Coulson (MCMEAT1), husband of world champ Michellie Jones ) to rst. That’s a bait, and I’m not biting.    ;-) — JJ Jeffrey Justice Oceanside, CA

Peter (MCMEAT): Welcome to RST.  How about an explanation on your handle — MCMEAT1?  I enjoyed reading the latest Triathlete magazine article which featured Michellie and you.  The American Gothic pose in front of your CA house was almost appropriate.  You should have had a pen and Michellie a bike or some triathlon tool of the trade.  A Michellie quote at the end of one artilcle was somewhat curious: "I don’t like what triathlon’s evolving to, but I can live with myself — I’ve done all I can," and "Now I’ll do like Karen:  If you’re a good athlete, you can still win under any format."   This seems to conflict with the quote, " The money is just a bonus" Is she giving up on her stand against drafting and conceding to the forces that pay (ITU series participation)?  or is there nowhere to turn now that the ITGP is also going drafting — and discriminating against women!  The triathlon world is tough. I’ll be rooting for Michellie at Muncie in a longer distance format (and non drafting).  I am one of those (American) men who admire the accomplishments of female triathletes like Michellie and pay attention to the brands of equipment they use! Tucker Newberry Falls Church, VA USA

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Has anyone seen JJ ? or has he fallen off the face of the earth  I miss his postings.  MCMEAT1 Let’s all welcome AOL newbie Peter Coulson (MCMEAT1), husband of world champ Michellie Jones ) to rst. That’s a bait, and I’m not biting.    ;-)

What I want to know is what does the MCMEAT1 mean???  Is it possible that there’s another red meat eating triathlete out there???  And I thought I was the only one! — Marty Miller Proprietor of The Triathlete’s Web http://w3.one.net/~triweb

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Let’s all welcome AOL newbie Peter Coulson (MCMEAT1), husband of world champ Michellie Jones ) to rst. That’s a bait, and I’m not biting.    ;-) — JJ Jeffrey Justice Oceanside, CA

Welcome to rst, Peter. Dave Aggett Dartmouth, N. S.

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Another long-time lurker is unveiled! McMeat1 is really Peter Coulson, husband of Michellie Jones. So, now I understand who was behind the unsigned e-mail message — it read, simply, "go away" — that I got in response to one of my recent ITU-related postings. Made for a great first impression, obviously. Peter, now that you’re here, maybe Michellie could give you a few tips about manners? Seems that sponsors adore her for her ability to mingle and make many around her feel good. Katherine Williams

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Question:

Report from the first day of the Tri Fed Board meeting: In the running for ‘96 amateur championship: Orange County Howie in the Hills San Jose The first Inside Triathlon/Tri Fed newsletter will be out in early March to members Tri Fed Triathletes of the year: Tim DeBoom Lee DiPietro Jr: Eric Bergen Laura Reback Masters: Cliff Rigsbee Missy LeStrange 1995 Championship Events SPRINT Fibar Human Race 9/24/95 National Duathlon Championships Powerman Chicago 6/11/95 National Championships Mrs. T’s Chicago Two new board members to fill the vacancies created by the resignations of Greer and Ziebart (as recommended by the "blue ribbon panel" headed by Verne Scott): Paul Burton       William Fiske The Athlete rep position has been sent back to the panel with a request to put forward nominees who are currently card carrying pros. This to fall in line with the USOC guidelines on elite athlete representation on NGB boards The morning was spent on the 94 budget review and the proposed budget for 1995 All in all, a very good, productive day in snowy Colorado Springs. That’s Scott Zagarino

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Report from the first day of the Tri Fed Board meeting: Two new board members to fill the vacancies created by the resignations of Greer and Ziebart (as recommended by the "blue ribbon panel" headed by Verne Scott): Paul Burton       William Fiske

This is great news! Bill Fiske has been organizing an extensive series of races here in the metrowest suburbs of Boston for several years. His races are always safe, and he cares a lot about the sport. I’m glad we’ll have him on the board. Cathy Corning

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Question:

New Year’s Day Edinburgh Triathlon, Sunday 1st January 1995, 1pm, open to all. Here are the details as requested.  It’s a 400m swim, 10 mile (16K) cycle, and a 3.3 mile (5.3K) run.  The cycle is 3 times around Arthur’s Seat, and the run is once round.  There’s also a hot air balloon race being held at the same time over Arthur’s seat, so at least someone will get a good view! Entry forms are available from Edinburgh District Council sports centres and main swimming pools (including, presumably, the Commonwealth Pool where the swim is!) or by sending an SAE to Unique Events, 25 Greenside Place, Edinburgh, EH1 3AA. Entrance fee is 10 pounds.  All entrants get a souvenir T-shirt.  There’s a 500 pound spot prize for anyone who completes the course.  1st man and woman get 150 pounds each, 2nd get 75 pounds and 3rd 50 pounds.  Held under Scottish Triathlon Society rules (which are probably identical to BTA rules).  Age limit is 16 and over. Anyone game for it? James |     /        James McGregor              | "And remember; as they say in   | |    \       Sun Microsystems            |  Nepal, a dog is not just for   | |   \ /      Springfield                 |  Christmas.  With any luck,     | |  / / / /     Linlithgow                  |  there’ll be enough left over   | | / /   //    West Lothian                |  for Boxing Day."               | | //   / /    Scotland                    |     — Griff Rhys Jones        | |   / \      Phone:  UK 01506 672491     | Disclaimer: The above are my    | |     \       FAX:    UK 01506 670011     | opinions, and not necessarily   |

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Hi guys, There’s a sprint event in Edinburgh (Scotland) on Sunday, 1st January 1995.  It’s all part of the New Year Party which was such a great success last year.  The distances are as follows:         Swim:   400m    (in the Commonwealth Pool)         Cycle:  16K     (around the bottom of Arthur’s Seat – probably twice!)         Run:    5.5K    (through the streets of Edinburgh) If anyone’s interested in doing it, I’ll post more details. Keep training! James — |     /        James McGregor                  |                             | |    \       Sun Microsystems                |                             | |   \ /      Springfield                     |                             | |  / / / /     Linlithgow                      |                             | | / /   //    West Lothian                    |                             | | //   / /    Scotland                        |                             | |  / / / /     EH49 7LR                        |                             | |   / \      Phone:  UK 01506 672491         |                             | |     \       FAX:    UK 01506 670011         |                             |

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Question:

Does anyone out there do triathlons for fun?

Absolutel.  IMHO unless you’re getting big $$ for doing tris there is no other reason.  Training and/or racing…life’s too short to be unecessarily miserable! MJM

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Does anyone out there do triathlons for fun? [snip] I don’t want to finish two hours behind the rest of the field. Thanks Andy.

Andy, who cares if you finish 2 hours behind the pack.  You’re doing it for fun, right?  Besides, ya gotta start somwhere.  If you are two hrs behind the first time, maybe you’ll only be 1.5 hrs behind the second. Like I’ve said before, being a female, I’m quite often in the last wave.  Since I’m stronger on the swim than I am on the bike, I get passed ALOT on the bike course, then they pick of the cones as I go by. Then I pass em on the run.  But, I have a great time! enjoy it, and don’t worry about what everyone else is doing. jo Los Angeles

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Joan and I did the DeLand FL Duathlon at 6 PM Saturday and the Clermont Sprint Duathlon the next day at 7:30 AM.  Clermont was supposed to be a triathlon, but the high bacteria count in Lake Minneola forced them to change the 1/4 mile swim to a 1 mile run. In DeLand, race director John Boyle was up all night moving the race from the airport to the Sperling Sports complex a mile away because of construction on the bike course.  Turns out the new course (run 0.9, bike 12, run 2.7 miles) was more popular.  I held back a bit to save something for Clermont, finished 3rd in my age group.  Joan got 2nd. At Clermont I went out hard, had a faster bike split, but yesterday’s race (and last week’s marathon) took its toll on the run.  No award for me, though Joan won the over 40 fat-tire race.  Starting in the last wave I got to pass lots of mountain bikes (though with much embarrasment, I report being passed by one going about 25 MPH). Both races were Tri-Fed, so I showed my expired card and the cancelled check (dated March to prove I renewed.  A common problem, I hear. #include "disclaimer.h"                |____|

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Does anyone out there do triathlons for fun?

I’m not in it for the money! I would like to start the sport (I am a runner), but there seems to be no coverage (race results etc.) of people who do them for fun (or fitness).

The news media ignores us but some local sport rags have multi sport coverage of age groupers.  Triathlete magazine also highlights some of the better age groupers.   I don’t want to finish two hours behind the rest of the field.

Not to worry.   You’ll feel great just finishing, anyone who shows up and finishes a triathlon earns and receives the respect of his/her fellow competitors. And your friends and family will think you’re Mark Allen to just finish such a Herculean event.   Relay teams are allowed in most races and it’s another way to sample the sport. Thanks Andy.

– Larry Himmel Lars, the Aluminum Viking

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Does anyone out there do triathlons for fun?

YES YES YES!  If I was doing them to win, I wouldn’t be doing them at all!   A group of friends and I started doing them last year because after years   of aerobics, we needed a little more for motivation. We do the sprint   distance, and that can be accomplished with little training (if you have a   good aerobic base and decent skills in the three sports). Some of my   friends are really getting into it and train a lot. I’m trying, it’s just   that there are only so many hours in a day when you work full time and go   to school at night (and have a husband who doesn’t tri!). FYI, none of the   three sports are my strong point. I came into this as a novice all the way   around. I had done more biking, but no racing. We currently do the "Tri for Fun" series in Plesanton, CA. and the Danskin   series. My friend is a swimmer, so she often does the swim as part of a   relay team for bigger races, and that looks like a lot of fun too. My goal   is to do Olympic Distance races. Good luck and welcome! Marilyn – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Thanks Andy.

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writes: Does anyone out there do triathlons for fun?

YES YES YES!  If I was doing them to win, I wouldn’t be doing them at all!   Here Here!!  I started two years ago (late 30’s) and had a ball doing sprints and some Olympic distance stuff.  My times ain’t great (30 min, swim mile, 75 min 25m bike, 47 min 10k run) but I sure have fun. Enjoy!

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Does anyone out there do triathlons for fun?

I do! I started doing triathlons two years ago. My brother got in touch with the sport first when he started studying in in Hannover (this is Germany) and got to know some of the national top athletes there. So he started doing triathlons fairly seriously. Next my father caught the virus (he has been a long distance runner all his life and now started doing triathlons at the age of 56), and before I knew it I was sitting on my brand new racing bike training with those two guys although I have never been into endurance sports before. So now I`m out running or cycling or swimming three to four times a week and feeling healthy and great and I do four or five races a year where my only two serious opponents are myself and the course and I`m having a great time getting to know a lot of people who think just the same. I would like to start the sport (I am a runner), but there seems to be no coverage (race results etc.) of people who do them for fun (or fitness). I don’t want to finish two hours behind the rest of the field. Thanks Andy.

All I can say is: Just "tri" it; you`ll be fascinated.

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Does anyone out there do triathlons for fun?

I think everyone has fun. I would like to start the sport (I am a runner), but there seems to be no coverage (race results etc.) of people who do them for fun (or fitness).

It wouldn’t be too interesting to read in the papers.  "And in 700th place, it was Dan Reiley.  He went out for beers last night, so he had to walk the last mile of the run.  By the way, he had fun anyway." I don’t want to finish two hours behind the rest of the field.

You probably won’t.  There are usually a plenty of children, senior citizens, obese people, and people who develop injuries who are pretty easy to beat. So do it.  It’s a lot more fun than running races, and the people seem to be much more friendly, too Dan Reiley Primo Optics, Inc. Huntsville, AL — Default signature for news

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Does anyone out there do triathlons for fun? I would like to start the sport (I am a runner), but there seems to be no coverage (race results etc.) of people who do them for fun (or fitness). I don’t want to finish two hours behind the rest of the field. Thanks Andy.

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