Question:

I use www.markallenonline.com and like it and endorse it. It asks you a bunch of questions about current and last few years fitness, goals, target races, what days you want to do certain things (like long run or day off). Then it builds a daily perodic training schedule. You can see all the workouts over how many weeks you have currently paid for. You log-on and update what percentage of completion you achieve for each workout, and at any time can ask the system to review what you have completed so far and update the program accordingly. BW – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Do any of you have any experience with or recommendations for On Line Coaching programs.  I am currently grossly out of shape an overweight,but have done triathlons in the past and want to get back into the sport.  I just feel that I need some discipline and the need to report in regularly (not to mention the cash outlay) should motivate me to train.  Any comments you may have will be appreciated. Thanks, Mike Scott

Response:

I looked at this program in Chicago.  It was very intersteing but expensive and when I was ready to sign up they wouldn’t honor the discounted price they had given me previously.  Personally I’m glad I didn’t go with them, I’m paying less money and get a schedule done personally for me.  Not a software generated schedule and the ability to talk to someone who might have met Mark Allen once.

I use www.markallenonline.com and like it and endorse it. It asks you a bunch of questions about current and last few years fitness, goals, target races, what days you want to do certain things (like long run or day off). Then it builds a daily perodic training schedule. You can see all the workouts over how many weeks you have currently paid for. You log-on and update what percentage of completion you achieve for each workout, and at any time can ask the system to review what you have completed so far and update the program accordingly. BW

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Do any of you have any experience with or recommendations for On Line Coaching programs.  I am currently grossly out of shape an overweight,but have done triathlons in the past and want to get back into the sport.  I just feel that I need some discipline and the need to report in regularly (not to mention the cash outlay) should motivate me to train.  Any comments you may have will be appreciated. Thanks, Mike Scott

Response:

… Do any of you have any experience with online Coaching programs?

I used to use Rod Cedaro, cheap and effective but a little unrealistic concerning time requirements. It worked for me. His credentials both academically and as an athlete are hard to match http://www.tri-training.com.au/ Phil – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I use trainingbible.com and really like it, however it takes some commitment to figure it out (not the software, but the training behind it). Joe Friel is the guy. He wrote the Triathlete’s Training Bible, not an easy book to completely understand, but a great one once you do, imo. Last Sunday I spent a day attending a Joe Friel seminar and it clarified a ton of stuff about the book and the site. Chris

Response:

Do any of you have any experience with or recommendations for On Line Coaching programs.  I am currently grossly out of shape an overweight,but have done triathlons in the past and want to get back into the sport.  I just feel that I need some discipline and the need to report in regularly (not to mention the cash outlay) should motivate me to train.  Any comments you may have will be appreciated. Thanks, Mike Scott

Response:

Do any of you have any experience with online Coaching programs?

I use trainingbible.com and really like it, however it takes some commitment to figure it out (not the software, but the training behind it). Joe Friel is the guy. He wrote the Triathlete’s Training Bible, not an easy book to completely understand, but a great one once you do, imo. Last Sunday I spent a day attending a Joe Friel seminar and it clarified a ton of stuff about the book and the site. Chris

Response:

I use Steve from www.tri-ecoach.com.  I’m happy with what my $80 a month buys.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Do any of you have any experience with or recommendations for On Line Coaching programs.  I am currently grossly out of shape an overweight,but have done triathlons in the past and want to get back into the sport.  I just feel that I need some discipline and the need to report in regularly (not to mention the cash outlay) should motivate me to train.  Any comments you may have will be appreciated. Thanks, Mike Scott

Response:

Just send me $50 a month, shoot me an email everyday of what you have done (and eaten), and I will reply to each and every email telling you something. Granted, I’m not a coach per say but I can motivate you for $50 a month.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Do any of you have any experience with or recommendations for On Line Coaching programs.  I am currently grossly out of shape an overweight,but have done triathlons in the past and want to get back into the sport.  I just feel that I need some discipline and the need to report in regularly (not to mention the cash outlay) should motivate me to train.  Any comments you may have will be appreciated. Thanks, Mike Scott

Response:

Question:

As a childhood friend of Hunter’s, I have to believe that the comments supposedly made were taken out of context by our favorite friends at NBC. He’s as nice of a guy as anyone is, and is far from cocky. IMHO! P.S. Get a free email account over at iDoTriathlons.com  - Our whole triathlon team got ours. It’s a pretty cool system. Also, you can get registered for a Cervelo P3 (this month). They always have killer prizes! Before you buy.

Response:

Sam, I was replying to an early post and accidently posted a new message. I understand where you’re coming from. Hunter’s confidence may border cockiness (at times, I suppose), although I’m still here to say out of all the truly cocky athletes I know, he’s simply not one of them… but of course, this is coming from a friend of his Best wishes. Forgive me, but to which comments are you referring? Hunter is a nice guy, but he has a very confident streak that borders on cockiness (of course the person doing the judging cannot help but have bias in a determination of this sort).

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – As a childhood friend of Hunter’s, I have to believe that the comments supposedly made were taken out of context by our favorite friends at NBC. He’s as nice of a guy as anyone is, and is far from cocky. IMHO! P.S. Get a free email account over at iDoTriathlons.com  - Our whole triathlon team got ours. It’s a pretty cool system. Also, you can get registered for a Cervelo P3 (this month). They always have killer prizes! Before you buy.

Before you buy.

Response:

I also know Hunter.  I also read the comment (it was much farther down my list).   To some extent this is a typical case of what sport psychologists teach the athletes.  I know several sports psychologist who have the athletes visualize. Also, who ever dreams of coming in 17th? – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Sam, I was replying to an early post and accidently posted a new message. I understand where you’re coming from. Hunter’s confidence may border cockiness (at times, I suppose), although I’m still here to say out of all the truly cocky athletes I know, he’s simply not one of them… but of course, this is coming from a friend of his Best wishes. Forgive me, but to which comments are you referring? Hunter is a nice guy, but he has a very confident streak that borders on cockiness (of course the person doing the judging cannot help but have bias in a determination of this sort). As a childhood friend of Hunter’s, I have to believe that the comments supposedly made were taken out of context by our favorite friends at NBC. He’s as nice of a guy as anyone is, and is far from cocky. IMHO! P.S. Get a free email account over at iDoTriathlons.com  - Our whole triathlon team got ours. It’s a pretty cool system. Also, you can get registered for a Cervelo P3 (this month). They always have killer prizes! Before you buy. Before you buy.

Response:

I am a friend and train with Hunter in Orlando and think that you really do not know what the hell you are talking about.  Hunter is like any elite, he needs confidence or you will not make it in the elite field.  Unlike the age group racing that you are use to there is very little difference than winning and loosing on any given day.  Confidience in your self is a must and if you don’t understand that you are an idot.

Response:

I happen to be a fan of Hunter and think he did as well as he could. But if you are going to flame at least sign your name. Tom Townsen (aka Olden Slow)

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Also, who ever dreams of coming in 17th?

all the masses who didn’t even qualify…

Response:

Forgive me, but to which comments are you referring? Hunter is a nice guy, but he has a very confident streak that borders on cockiness (of course the person doing the judging cannot help but have bias in a determination of this sort). – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – As a childhood friend of Hunter’s, I have to believe that the comments supposedly made were taken out of context by our favorite friends at NBC. He’s as nice of a guy as anyone is, and is far from cocky. IMHO! P.S. Get a free email account over at iDoTriathlons.com  - Our whole triathlon team got ours. It’s a pretty cool system. Also, you can get registered for a Cervelo P3 (this month). They always have killer prizes! Before you buy.

Response:

Question:

Does anyone know of, or has heard of any triathlon races where the swim portion is conducted in a short or long course pool (50m)?

Response:

Does anyone know of, or has heard of any triathlon races where the swim portion is conducted in a short or long course pool (50m)?

Sprint distance tri in Louisville, Ky. the beginning of August (just happened).  In a 50 m pool.  For awhile run in waves, three athletes to a lane, with about 20 minutes between waves.  Most recently run in a time trial format, a single new competitor starting every 20 seconds and after up and back jumping over to the next lane. Up and back of 8 lanes gives total swim of 800  meters.

Response:

That idea of jumping lanes is good. Maybe a bit longer between athletes would be better, but then again a lot slower. Lloyd

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Does anyone know of, or has heard of any triathlon races where the swim portion is conducted in a short or long course pool (50m)? Sprint distance tri in Louisville, Ky. the beginning of August (just happened).  In a 50 m pool.  For awhile run in waves, three athletes to a lane, with about 20 minutes between waves.  Most recently run in a time trial format, a single new competitor starting every 20 seconds and after up and back jumping over to the next lane. Up and back of 8 lanes gives total swim of 800  meters.

Response:

Yes, Virtually every Triathlon in the UK is conducted in a pool, because the sea is to cold!!, access to lakes for swimming is limited and rivers are plain stinky. It makes for a bit boring event and is very dependant upon good lap counters. No where as good as a mass start open water swim.

Response:

Oklahoma City Supersprint Triathlon (state sprint championship) is a snake swim in a 50m pool, up one side of the lane and back down the other; then under lane line; repeat.  Racers start one at a time at one leg at 30 second intervals. Why do you ask?

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Does anyone know of, or has heard of any triathlon races where the swim portion is conducted in a short or long course pool (50m)?

Response:

There are several in California that used this type of circuit. One of them, the Tinsel Tri, was held in december and featured a reverse triathlon that had run/bike/swim. This way all the people were spread out at the end and everyone had to do 3 laps and go under the lane dividers. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Does anyone know of, or has heard of any triathlon races where the swim portion is conducted in a short or long course pool (50m)?

Response:

There’s a series of sprint triathlons in Salt Lake City that start in March. The order of the events is reversed to spread out the field before the swim.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Does anyone know of, or has heard of any triathlon races where the swim portion is conducted in a short or long course pool (50m)?

Response:

In what way is access to lakes for swimming, limited? Phil

| Yes, | | Virtually every Triathlon in the UK is conducted in a pool, because the sea | is to cold!!, access to lakes for swimming is limited and rivers are plain | stinky. | | It makes for a bit boring event and is very dependant upon good lap | counters. No where as good as a mass start open water swim. | |

Response:

Does anyone know of, or has heard of any triathlon races where the swim portion is conducted in a short or long course pool (50m)?

Yep.  Club races held every month during summer. Shift the lane ropes, toss in a 3 bouys to form a triangle and you got pretty close to 100m per lap (50m pool).  We swim 5 laps for 500m. AJ

Response:

Does anyone know of, or has heard of any triathlon races where the swim portion is conducted in a short or long course pool (50m)?

I’ve been to a number of sprints where the swim is in a pool. Some that come to mind are the Lone Star Tri in Pflugerville (suburb of Austin, TX) and the Heart of Texas Triathlon series in San Antonio. I can probably think of more if you’re interested. Usually the swim is 400-500 meters; they ask you on the application how fast you can swim that distance, and seed you by speed. Every one I’ve ever seen has you swim up the lane, down the lane, move to the next lane, repeat until you’ve done all the lanes in the pool. They usually put one person in the water every 5-10 seconds, so it takes a while for everyone to start. Are you looking for pool swims or seeking to avoid them? Vanessa

Response:

It is always a hoot to go in the pool swim tri’s. I have been in a bunch around Austin, TX where the swimmers start 5-8 seconds apart. About halfway through there is always some great carnage with people who have not estimated their swim time correctly. If this is one of your first tri’s where the swim is in the pool, try not to be over ambitious with your estimate. It is easier to swim past people or take it a little slower than to get run over or be totally trashed after the swim. My 22 cents worth. Good luck. greg. In article <Pine.SOL.3.91.1000821150520.6653B- – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Does anyone know of, or has heard of any triathlon races where the swim portion is conducted in a short or long course pool (50m)? I’ve been to a number of sprints where the swim is in a pool. Some that come to mind are the Lone Star Tri in Pflugerville (suburb of Austin, TX) and the Heart of Texas Triathlon series in San Antonio. I can probably think of more if you’re interested. Usually the swim is 400-500 meters; they ask you on the application how fast you can swim that distance, and seed you by speed. Every one I’ve ever seen has you swim up the lane, down the lane, move to the next lane, repeat until you’ve done all the lanes in the pool. They usually put one person in the water every 5- 10 seconds, so it takes a while for everyone to start. Are you looking for pool swims or seeking to avoid them? Vanessa

Before you buy.

Response:

How about a triathlon where say 8 participants per heat swim in their own individual lanes rather than ducking under lane lines to jump lanes? In other words, a true swim competition where all participants in each heat start at the same time transitioning to bike and run after the swim.

Response:

yep I’ve done a couple of those in MEXICO the heats per lane work great jumping under lanes is crazy….never done those, but doesn’t sound good.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – How about a triathlon where say 8 participants per heat swim in their own individual lanes rather than ducking under lane lines to jump lanes? In other words, a true swim competition where all participants in each heat start at the same time transitioning to bike and run after the swim.

Response:

Question:

I have a strange feeling these days, I’d like to know if you feel the same when preparing for long races. I will be in Embrun (France) for the long distance triathlon on the 15th of August. After a hard two month period of training, I’m now in the cool-down phase of preparation since last monday. After the "near-overtraining" period, I was feeling tired and was very happy to have some kind of rest before the race. But as strange as it can be, as soon as I reduced my training (I said reduced, not stop !), I began to have strange thinkings: "C’mon, you don’t train enough" "One day and a half without training, ho my god that’s too much". "Am I still able to ride 130km, If I don’t do this for three weeks ?". It is very strange because I know that I have done the best I could during the training and I am feeling in perfect shape. I also know that I need this resting period to consolidate my training. I talked to a friend who will come with me in Embrun and he feels exactly the same. I had the same kind of thoughts last year when I did IM Switzerland. Nicolas

Response:

I talked to a friend who will come with me in Embrun and he feels exactly the same. I had the same kind of thoughts last year when I did IM Switzerland. Nicolas

It’s perfectly normal. You’ve done your training, so sit back and recover. I kind of liken the feeling that you describe above as  a spring beginning to coil as potential energy is added to the resting muscles. As the spring coils further you begin to get more antsy and have those stronger feelings of guilt as you back off your training. Don’t give in and up your intensity! You’ll "uncoil" too soon. You’ll feel like you’re bouncing off of walls. You’ve got so much potential energy that you are *ready* to release that spring. Keep that spring coiled until race day, then release. If you do it right you will feel that energy in your arms and legs as you sail across the course. Good luck                           |26      | IMC’96: 10:36:37          |   Fe   |   IMNZ, IMC ‘99 IMC’97: 10:42:53          |        |                  "THE BEST ELEMENT OF RACING"

Response:

Question:

Doug, Quic Disc has three significant sources of energy.  Sucrose, Dextrose with a DE of about 98 and Maltodextrin.  Our Maltodextrin does make up enough of our product that you don’t get the spike.  The Malto we use is a DE base of 10.  DE represents the complexity of the Dextrose.  The smaller the number the more complex.   DEs of over 25 are considered Gluclose solids.  DEs under 25 are considered Maltodextrins.   As I stated our Maltodextrin is at 10.  Just enough Maltodextrin to add a good percentage of complexity, but not enough to cause stomach distress.  There has been a rather lively debate on Rec.Sport.Triathlon  that has a lot of opinions of the triathletes about QUic Disc.  We also post, UNSOLICITED, opinions of individuals who have tried Quic Disc at WWW.QuicDisc.com under Email Reviews.  We do not use fructose as it is commonly known to cause stomach distress and is not absorbed by the stomach as easily. Anyway, those are the facts from someone should know, I invented the process and colaborated on the formulation and own QUic Disc. If you have any other questions, please let me know. Thanks, Fred – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I carried them with me.  Yes, there are simple sugars, which digest quickly (start in your mouth), therefore energizing you quickly. Why of course they energize quickly – its called an insulin spike. The down side, if stop taking them you sink lower then your starting point. Just like GU et al you had best chomp those down with h2o or the result will not be good. A plain old Mr. Ed sugar cube will give the same lift.  The label reads: Serving size 3 Discs.  Per serving- Sodium 220 mg; Potassium 60 mg; Total carbs 35 g; Sugars 29 g: Total fat 0; protein 0.  So that’s approx. 11 g carbs EACH I still have not heard what kind of sugar.  The Na and K are fine but fructose has deleterious effects on many people.  FWIW I prefer maltodextrin based fluids but the commercial folks don’t like the cost. Bobbi "I respect your opinion Doug" Amaker Thanks but I don’t have an opinion until the sugar question is answered. — These Opinions Are Mine!

Response:

Hi everyone,    I’m just back from the fabulous Marine Corps Marathon!  It was a marvelous marathon, and I attribute it to 4 factors.  The weather was superb (50-72), the course was fabulous and the time flew by, and the crowd was great.  Also, I tried Psycho Fred’s QuicDisc Sports Drink Tablets for the first time during MCM.  These discs are a little smaller than a quarter and about 1/2" thick. There are 3 to a pack and they are a pleasant grape flavor.  They taste like a giant sweetheart, only not as tart.  They are pretty soft, and crumble easily. They are designed to drop in water, and they dissolve quickly.  I found myself taking a bite, letting it dissolve in my mouth, then washing it down with water.  Each serving is 3 discs, but each disc has about 73 mg sodium, 20 mg potassium, & 11 g carbs. After a few bites, I poured the remains in a cup of water and it dissolved almost instantly.  They are very easy to carry in the pack they come in, and the package is super easy to open.  I find them very palatable and you don’t have to chew.  It’s an easy way to carry and use a "sports drink" without having to carry the water. And, they did not upset my stomach in any way.   You can find them at    http://quicdisc.com/ Give them a try.  Good luck.  Bobbi

Response:

tried Psycho Fred’s QuicDisc Sports Drink Tablets for the first time during MCM.  These discs are a little smaller than a quarter and about 1/2" thick.

Did the race give them out or did you carry them? There are 3 to a pack and they are a pleasant grape flavor.  They taste like a giant sweetheart, only not as tart.  They are pretty soft, and crumble easily. They are designed to drop in water, and they dissolve quickly.  I found myself taking a bite, letting it dissolve in my mouth, then washing it down with water.  Each serving is 3 discs, but each disc has about 73 mg sodium, 20 mg potassium, & 11 g carbs. After a few bites, I poured the remains in a cup of

The web page says 35 carbs per three.  What they do not tell you is the basis of the carbs.  It’s very possible that this is just fructose and/or sucrose, aka a solid form of Gatorade with a cutsy grape tang.  Fructose in particular upsets many stomachs but is used because it is cheap.   If someone can verify the contents we could be better consumers.   Give them a try.  Good luck.  Bobbi

Not until the carbo’s are accounted for. — These Opinions Are Mine!

Response:

The web page says 35 carbs per three.  What they do not tell you is the basis of the carbs.  It’s very possible that this is just fructose and/or sucrose, aka a solid form of Gatorade with a cutsy grape tang.  Fructose in particular upsets many stomachs but is used because it is cheap.   If someone can verify the contents we could be better consumers.   Give them a try.  Good luck.  Bobbi Not until the carbo’s are accounted for.

Couldn’t you just try them in an unimportant training run and see if your stomach can tolerate it? JT

Response:

I carried them with me.  Yes, there are simple sugars, which digest quickly (start in your mouth), therefore energizing you quickly.  The label reads: Serving size 3 Discs.  Per serving- Sodium 220 mg; Potassium 60 mg; Total carbs 35 g; Sugars 29 g: Total fat 0; protein 0.  So that’s approx. 11 g carbs EACH disc.  I think they’re great, signed Bobbi "I respect your opinion Doug" Amaker

Response:

I carried them with me.  Yes, there are simple sugars, which digest quickly (start in your mouth), therefore energizing you quickly.

Why of course they energize quickly – its called an insulin spike. The down side, if stop taking them you sink lower then your starting point. Just like GU et al you had best chomp those down with h2o or the result will not be good. A plain old Mr. Ed sugar cube will give the same lift.  The label reads: Serving size 3 Discs.  Per serving- Sodium 220 mg; Potassium 60 mg; Total carbs 35 g; Sugars 29 g: Total fat 0; protein 0.  So that’s approx. 11 g carbs EACH

I still have not heard what kind of sugar.  The Na and K are fine but fructose has deleterious effects on many people.  FWIW I prefer maltodextrin based fluids but the commercial folks don’t like the cost. Bobbi "I respect your opinion Doug" Amaker

Thanks but I don’t have an opinion until the sugar question is answered. — These Opinions Are Mine!

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Question:

– !!! Please remove ".thanks" from the address when email !!!  harekrsnausanet

Response:

Try Sharon Donnelly’s site at www.sirius.ca/running/sharon_donnelly.html. There are many photos of her and also links to other sites that have pictures. Ken Ken Parker Runner’s Web www.runnersweb.com/running.html A running and triathlon resource site.

Response:

http://www.wvoutside.com http://www.home-bytes.com/sportshots/ http://www.actionphoto.com.au/ You can also to to http://www.lycos.com , they have an option to search only for pictures. Remember to ask permission before using anyone’s copyrighted photos.  Hope this helps. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Try Sharon Donnelly’s site at www.sirius.ca/running/sharon_donnelly.html. There are many photos of her and also links to other sites that have pictures. Ken Ken Parker Runner’s Web www.runnersweb.com/running.html A running and triathlon resource site.

Response:

Question:

As a member of an awesome triathlon club with incredible talent and handfull of dedicated folks with a realistic vision for the club and our sport.  I want to give you a hint. You will have 4 types of members. 1 – Those who choose to participate in leadership roles. 2 – Those who choose to volunteer themselves or significant others for those thankless behind the scenes positions on a regular basis. 3 – Those who choose to participate as Goodwill Ambassadors for the club and the triathlon community. 4 – Those (usually the same ones) who choose to complain, whine on a regular basis and offer little or no time to volunteer.  Except to point out all the things that are wrong with the club.  Only volunteer for the jobs which have the most visibility and lots of time in the "spotlight" then dissappear for everything else the club needs volunteers for.   Pick the 3 groups you want be the driving force of your club and tell the other group to hit the road from the start.

Response:

I attempted to start one here, but found one already established and joined it. I am quite active in our club "Sonoma Mountain Triathletes" (Sonoma County, CA. – north of San Fran.). We have printed flyers to post at pools, health clubs, bike and running stores, etc. In addition, we printed the same flyers with membership applications on the back and set them at the information table at the Vineman signup. Also, if you can get word out via rst newsgroup, and a website if possible, you should get a good response. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi, my name is Matt.  I’m a sophomore at Miami University in Oxford, OH; a couple of my friends and I at school are going to try and start a triathlon club this semester.  I work at the university pool, and when I ask random students why they’re "doing laps," a lot of them have said that they’re training for a triathlon.  So it seems as if the interest is already there, I’m just asking for advice on how to get people (college students, mind you) to get together and train, and hopefully do a couple races. I’m a newbie – I’ve done 2 triathlons this summer so far, and I’d like to continue at college.  So if anyone out there has tried to start a tri club in their area, I’d love to hear about what to do, or not to do in order to make the club successful. Thanks in advance, Matt

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Hi, my name is Matt.  I’m a sophomore at Miami University in Oxford, OH; a couple of my friends and I at school are going to try and start a triathlon club this semester.  I work at the university pool, and when I ask random students why they’re "doing laps," a lot of them have said that they’re training for a triathlon.  So it seems as if the interest is already there, I’m just asking for advice on how to get people (college students, mind you) to get together and train, and hopefully do a couple races. I’m a newbie – I’ve done 2 triathlons this summer so far, and I’d like to continue at college.  So if anyone out there has tried to start a tri club in their area, I’d love to hear about what to do, or not to do in order to make the club successful.

matt, thats great youre trying to start a club, intercollegiate triathlon is becoming more and more popular each year, so im sure you wont have a problem .  Im the president of the UC Santa Barbara tri team, and we have it pretty easy.  If you can at all get funding from your rec sports program it would really help you guys out.   since triathlon isnt conisedered NCAA yet, we cannot get money from the athletic department.  however, the "club sport" program may be able to help you once the team is established. if you have any questions about anything feel free to ask, and hopefully we will see you in boulder, CO for collegiate nationals!! good luck scott

Response:

Hey Great for You! I wish my college had a tri club when I was there.  Would have given me something for the off season from soccer.  My med school had a group of people who met for swim and occasional bike/run workouts but nothing formal.  I wish the NCAA would start triathlon as a intercollegiate sport! Anyways, Penn State Tri Club has a pretty cool web site at : http://www.clubs.psu.edu/triclub/index.htm They have a race schedule, work out schedule, member list ect.  You can also email them from the page maybe they would have some great advice for you.   Good luck. Don Van Wie Tri-ing to practice what I preach.

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Matt I started a club here in the city of Guelph. I do work at the university here and the core members of the group are students. But don’t restrict yourself to just students. I’m sure a few older age groupers around town my want to join. This can be a benefit since they can pass on valuable tips. This is what’s happened in our case. As far as getting the ‘word out’ about the club, arrange a information meeting. Post some signs around the Athletic Centre, talk to people you swim and run with. At our information meeting we had some local pros and a rep from a local race series come out and answer questions. We had everyone fill out an information form and I passed on my email address. I have an email distribution list which I post messages about upcoming workouts, races, rides to races, etc….   We decided that we would have one main workout per week. It happens to be a tempo run on Tuesday nights. Other workouts are arranged between a few others or with the whole group. We stress that this is a social group, to meet other triathletes, the structured workouts just happen to follow. Your workouts could be broken up into groups depending on ability, so no one is running or cycling ‘off the back’ by themselves. Remember keep it fun!!! Good luck Ken – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi, my name is Matt.  I’m a sophomore at Miami University in Oxford, OH; a couple of my friends and I at school are going to try and start a triathlon club this semester.  I work at the university pool, and when I ask random students why they’re "doing laps," a lot of them have said that they’re training for a triathlon.  So it seems as if the interest is already there, I’m just asking for advice on how to get people (college students, mind you) to get together and train, and hopefully do a couple races. I’m a newbie – I’ve done 2 triathlons this summer so far, and I’d like to continue at college.  So if anyone out there has tried to start a tri club in their area, I’d love to hear about what to do, or not to do in order to make the club successful. Thanks in advance, Matt

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Hi, my name is Matt.  I’m a sophomore at Miami University in Oxford, OH; a couple of my friends and I at school are going to try and start a triathlon club this semester.  I work at the university pool, and when I ask random students why they’re "doing laps," a lot of them have said that they’re training for a triathlon.  So it seems as if the interest is already there, I’m just asking for advice on how to get people (college students, mind you) to get together and train, and hopefully do a couple races. I’m a newbie – I’ve done 2 triathlons this summer so far, and I’d like to continue at college.  So if anyone out there has tried to start a tri club in their area, I’d love to hear about what to do, or not to do in order to make the club successful. Thanks in advance, Matt

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Question:

I just want to make everyone aware of the greedy and dishonest treatment I have received from the race director of the IronHorse Triathlon in Springfield, Illinois. First let me give you some background info: I had a confirmed entry to the IronHorse Triathlon but I tore some ligaments in my ankle and knew I was not going to be able to race. Knowing there was a field limit of 900 people I thought I would be a nice guy and inform the Race Director so he could allow someone else to race. I had no intentions of asking for my entry fee back, because I realize they are almost always non-refundable. When I called the RD, I was told they had a waiting list with checks and entry forms already filled out. They thanked me for calling and said they would substitute one of the people on the waiting list for me, accept their entry fee, and to my surprise, refund my entry fee. At this time, I was very pleased  and thought I was dealing with a great RD. While since then, 2 months have passed, I have called the RD 4 times and left messages, and have not received a call back. I even told them I did not care about the money, just please return my phone call and atleast tell me they are  not going to honor their agreement. It is like I said in the beginning, I did not expect to receive my money back,  but since they said they would refund it, it would be nice for them to honor their word, or atleast return my phone call. After all, they received their $85 from the person they put in my place. Just thought everyone would like to know the type of people we have running one of the IM qualifing races. It makes me wonder if they are in it for the money, or the love of the sport. Tom Hyslip

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Tom, The race director for Ironhorse is as far as I know not running the race for making money.  He took over as RD a few years ago when the previous RD decided to step down.  He did it to keep what he felt was a quality event in Springfield IL keep from going under. You may want to try mailing you request if you are not receiving any answer from you phone messages.  The RD may be taking a much deserved break – or he may have skipped the country with you $85 and is now living it up in the Bahamas 8^). Todd Jensen

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Tom This race has been around for a long time and is very well run. I’ve done over a 100 tris all over the country and this one ranks in the top 5. Realize you made a donation to keep the sport alive, suck it up and go on. Terry

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It makes me wonder if they are in it for the money, or the love of the sport. Tom Hyslip

In the words of a not-so-famous movie bimbo, "Why can’t we have BOTH?".  I don’t mind making a few bucks on something I also enjoy. On another note, something you should note about the RST culture,  is that all RD’s are assumed to be kind benevolent folks who sacrifice themselves completely for the good of the sport.  Be prepared for flames!  ; )

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Question:

I’ve been swimming all winter, and I’m about to enter my first triathlon.  (June 2, Marlborough Mass. USA, short.)  One of the questions I’ve had for a while regards shoelaces. On the one hand, my goal is simply to finish, so transistion time is not my first priority.  However, I’ve heard people refer to "elastic" shoelaces, though I’ve never seen them in stores.  Then, as I was staring at the Mountainsmith fanny pack hanging from my handlebars, here in the office, I saw them!  Well, actually it’s just a bunch of ~1/8" bungie cord with quick-release fasteners that Mountainsmith uses to secure things to the outside of the pack.  I’m sure that they sell the stuff at REI (outdoor store).  Is this what people use?  It seems like it would work! Stephen Celuzza Staff Scientist Ocean Acoustical Services and Instrumentation Systems (OASIS), Inc. 5 Militia Drive Lexington, MA  02173

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’ve been swimming all winter, and I’m about to enter my first triathlon.  (June 2, Marlborough Mass. USA, short.)  One of the questions I’ve had for a while regards shoelaces. On the one hand, my goal is simply to finish, so transistion time is not my first priority.  However, I’ve heard people refer to "elastic" shoelaces, though I’ve never seen them in stores.  Then, as I was staring at the Mountainsmith fanny pack hanging from my handlebars, here in the office, I saw them!  Well, actually it’s just a bunch of ~1/8" bungie cord with quick-release fasteners that Mountainsmith uses to secure things to the outside of the pack.  I’m sure that they sell the stuff at REI (outdoor store).  Is this what people use?  It seems like it would work! Stephen Celuzza Staff Scientist Ocean Acoustical Services and Instrumentation Systems (OASIS), Inc. 5 Militia Drive Lexington, MA  02173

Any "real" running shop in your area should carry elastic laces.  I just switched to them (from lace locks) and I think they really are a bit faster (and easier) to use.  If you can’t find them, mail order might be an option (just look at the ads in the back section of Inside Tri, Triathlete, or Runner’s World). Hope you find them. -Tom Bonigut

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I have used "Easy Laces" with good results . I purchased them from my gym, however I happen to have a new pair on my desk and it has an 800 # 622-8519. They are in Sun Valley, Id.   Good luck in your fisrt race. Kevin

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The thing about elastic laces is that they’re fast to get on. However, since they stretch very easily, they don’t give a whole lot of support and may not be the best choice for rough courses (trails) or for long courses where suppoort can be more important. The time I lost using lace locks vs elastic laces never cost me a victory. (I’ve never won anything except pity from my friends and family) This year I bought a pair of Brooks Triflares. A racing shoe witha single velcro closure. Should be fast if not particularly supportive. I have yet to try them since it’s been so wet and crappy around here and I don’t want to waste them on training runs. (I will use them once or twice before my firsts race of the season) TriDork

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I got mine at World’s Toughest in So. Lake Tahoe.  You can order by phone and they’ll send them out in a day or two.  I think they cost about $4 a pair. 1-800-441-1278 Good Luck Rick

Response:

The thing about elastic laces is that they’re fast to get on. However, since they stretch very easily, they don’t give a whole lot of support and may not be the best choice for rough courses (trails) or for long courses where suppoort can be more important.

My experience doesn’t support this. I’ve been wearing elastic laces for several years now (ever since I heard Karen Smyers recommended them at a Danskin triathlon). I’ve worn them not only in triathlons (up to 1/2 IM) but in 50K trail races, on many rough trail runs of 10-20M in length, and never once had a problem with support. The single problem I have had is mud, specifically, "shoe suck." At Cool Canyon Crawl (50K) this year, I had my shoe sucked right off in a mud hole, and I’ve had several near misses (partial suck) in training runs at Rancho San Antonio over the winters. So if you know you’re going to be running in mud, I’d stay away from elastic laces; otherwise they have my whole-hearted recommendation. — Steve Patt  Stevens Creek Software  The Athlete’s Diary & Bookstore  WWW: http://www.stevenscreek.com  FTP: ftp.stevenscreek.com  1-800-TA-DIARY

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My experience doesn’t support this. I’ve been wearing elastic laces for several years now (ever since I heard Karen Smyers recommended them at a Danskin triathlon). I’ve worn them not only in triathlons (up to 1/2 IM) but in 50K trail races, on many rough trail runs of 10-20M in length, and never once had a problem with support.

I agree with Steve on this.  I just ran the Big Sur Marathon last month in my shoes with elastic laces and the extra stretching room actually helped when my feet started swelling in the heat.  I had no trouble with  support at all. Rick

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’ve been swimming all winter, and I’m about to enter my first triathlon.  (June 2, Marlborough Mass. USA, short.)  One of the questions I’ve had for a while regards shoelaces. On the one hand, my goal is simply to finish, so transistion time is not my first priority.  However, I’ve heard people refer to "elastic" shoelaces, though I’ve never seen them in stores.  Then, as I was staring at the Mountainsmith fanny pack hanging from my handlebars, here in the office, I saw them!  Well, actually it’s just a bunch of ~1/8" bungie cord with quick-release fasteners that Mountainsmith uses to secure things to the outside of the pack.  I’m sure that they sell the stuff at REI (outdoor store).  Is this what people use?  It seems like it would work! Stephen Celuzza Staff Scientist Ocean Acoustical Services and Instrumentation Systems (OASIS), Inc. 5 Militia Drive Lexington, MA  02173

Hey Stephen In my part of the world we never heard of such a thing as elastic laces. So we use the kind of elastic bands used in pijamas and underwear. They’re sold real cheap and in different widths. And they’re real fast in transitions. Hope this helps Paulo

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – The thing about elastic laces is that they’re fast to get on. However, since they stretch very easily, they don’t give a whole lot of support and may not be the best choice for rough courses (trails) or for long courses where suppoort can be more important. The time I lost using lace locks vs elastic laces never cost me a victory. (I’ve never won anything except pity from my friends and family) This year I bought a pair of Brooks Triflares. A racing shoe witha single velcro closure. Should be fast if not particularly supportive. I have yet to try them since it’s been so wet and crappy around here and I don’t want to waste them on training runs. (I will use them once or twice before my firsts race of the season) TriDork

CAUTION My Brooks Konas (precursor to Triflare) caused serious Iliotibial Band problems. They have very little support. They are light and very fast in transitions. When running without socks also always caused bleeding in toes, front of ankle and Achilles tendon. Dave Aggett Dartmouth, Nova Scotia

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Question:

[....] Perhaps no-one told the commentator about drafting.  It was allowed in this race, but when McMartin and Dobson(?) were at the front, the commentator was going on about how they were battling for the lead.  It looked alot like a 2 man PACELINE to me (can u have that with 2 people?)

[....] Actually, I was amazed at what a poor job the two leaders did of drafting on the bike leg.  They left large gaps (often 3 or 4 feet) and frequently were not drafting at all.  That put them at a disadvantage because one of the chase groups ran a fairly creditable paceline.  One of the leaders ended up getting caught by some of the chasers on the run.  A bigger gap from the bike leg could have saved him. I don’t like drafting in a tri, but if you’re going to do it, do it well. Despite my above comments, I’m glad that triathlon is getting coverage. It’s better than the 5 lines given to the TdF on Sportsdesk every night

I agree. Dave LaPorte U. of Minn.

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I was on this morning and saw two postings of the ITU World Cup results from Whistler and now they are gone. Can people pull things off of this newsgroup at will? Or off into cyberspace? Just wondering?

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I was on this morning and saw two postings of the ITU World Cup results from Whistler and now they are gone. Can people pull things off of this newsgroup at will? Or off into cyberspace? Just wondering?

Well, I just watched this on TV and wasn’t all that impressed.  The commentators insisted on talking in miles (1mi,25mi,6mi) – close, but no cigar. Perhaps no-one told the commentator about drafting.  It was allowed in this race, but when McMartin and Dobson(?) were at the front, the commentator was going on about how they were battling for the lead.  It looked alot like a 2 man PACELINE to me (can u have that with 2 people?) The Australian co-star was OK, but only spoke when spoken to.  One thing that bothered me was when he said, in comparison to IM, that this was really just a sprint.  I’m not sure this is a great thing to promote the sport to newbies like myself.  The winners were out there for just under 2 hours – 15 minutes quicker than the top runners finish a marathon- but no-one would call that a sprint, even in comparison to an ultra. All I really remember of the results was that Andrew McMartin was 1st and Frank Clarke second (yeah, Canada!)  I think Wes Dobson(?) was 5th. He said he got a little dehydrated on the run. Despite my above comments, I’m glad that triathlon is getting coverage. It’s better than the 5 lines given to the TdF on Sportsdesk every night Sean.

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I was on this morning and saw two postings of the ITU World Cup results from Whistler and now they are gone. Can people pull things off of this newsgroup at will? Or off into cyberspace? Just wondering? Well, I just watched this on TV and wasn’t all that impressed.  The commentators insisted on talking in miles (1mi,25mi,6mi) – close, but no cigar.

Speaking as a semi-retired beer-guzzling, arm-chair quarterback, I wonder if CBS did this for the beer-guzzling, arm-chair quarterback crowd who still isn’t able to comprehend or relate to the metric system. However, I thought the coverage was better than average– especially better than the stuff ESPN did last year. Perhaps no-one told the commentator about drafting.  It was allowed in this race, but when McMartin and Dobson(?) were at the front, the commentator was going on about how they were battling for the lead.  It looked alot like a 2 man PACELINE to me (can u have that with 2 people?)

This race was the first drafting legal, ITU race I was able to catch.  It became pretty clear that the pros still are learning the tactics of a draft legal race.   I expected to see a lot of tight, fast-moving (lead changing) pace lines.  I guess this is probably due to aerobars… SZAG: maybe you could bring this up to the ITU…  Make some sort of a brake on the end of the aerobars mandatory for drafting legal races.  This would increase safety and really tighten up the pace lines.   The Australian co-star was OK, but only spoke when spoken to.  

I was pleasantly surprised with Miles commentary and was glad to see it. The winners were out there for just under 2 hours – 15 minutes quicker than the top runners finish a marathon- but no-one would call that a sprint, even in comparison to an ultra.

Your right, but maybe from a pro’s perspective this is sort of a sprint… I was surprised to find myself liking the drafting legal format.  I think it would be fun to try.  However, we need to keep both formats around and only have a few, field-size limited, draft-legal races.    W.Patrick Brug, Ph.D.  _-           -_    Los Alamos National Lab -__       __-                                       /    cis:      72410,3372        /  

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[....] was going on about how they were battling for the lead.  It looked alot like a 2 man PACELINE to me (can u have that with 2 people?) [....] Actually, I was amazed at what a poor job the two leaders did of drafting on the bike leg.  They left large gaps (often 3 or 4 feet) and frequently were not drafting at all.  

This was also my observation, and I just gave the pros some benefit of the doubt by saying that they just weren’t used to this type of race strategy yet…  My first reaction was that these guys (leaders) just wanted to be out front so they could "beat their chests" so to speak and all mental aspects of drafting and strategy seemed to play a secondary role. That put them at a disadvantage because one of the chase groups ran a fairly creditable paceline.  

Of course, this one wasn’t very organized either…  I remember seeing guys sprinting out from the middle of the paceline at times which disrupts the entire flow…      W.Patrick Brug, Ph.D.  _-           -_    Los Alamos National Lab -__       __-                                       /    cis:      72410,3372        /  

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