Question:

Could that explain it?    And, does anyone alter their saddle position to compensate for this?  Perhaps tilting it down?

Riding on the nose of the saddle can cause the discomfort you describe.  Your butt should rest on the wide part of the saddle and there should be minimal pressure from the nose of the saddle on your crotch area.  Achieving this requires some fiddling with seat adjustments and maybe a different seat post. Larry

Response:

I just got aero bars.  Wow, what a difference.  I love them. However…  For the first time ever I experience what I have heard other men talk about and that is numbness in the genitals.

Are you on a road bike? It seems that your aero bars could be a bit too long and you’re stretched out in an extended position and therefore moving too far forward on the seat. . This will happen if you are using aerobars that are designed for tri bikes as they tend to be longer than should be used on a road bike. To understand this go to this site and read the technical articles under the big slam position.http://www.bicyclesports.com/accessories/aerobars/slambars.html  On some road bikes another alternative is to turn the seat post around to move the saddle forward. The only problem with this is that you then usually have a badly handling bike. Sitting for long hours on a bike seat will effect some guys this way but not others. You can  buy saddles that have cut outs to take pressure of the pudendal nerve. This is the nerve that supplies the male genitals. This is what gets sat on on a bike saddle and can cause numbness for some.

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Thanks for the good advice.  I went to my LBS last night and a guy who really knows what he is doing helped me out.  We moved the aerobars slightly and moved the saddle forward.   Seems better.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I just got aero bars.  Wow, what a difference.  I love them. However…  For the first time ever I experience what I have heard other men talk about and that is numbness in the genitals. Are you on a road bike? It seems that your aero bars could be a bit too long and you’re stretched out in an extended position and therefore moving too far forward on the seat. . This will happen if you are using aerobars that are designed for tri bikes as they tend to be longer than should be used on a road bike. To understand this go to this site and read the technical articles under the big slam position.http://www.bicyclesports.com/accessories/aerobars/slambars.html On some road bikes another alternative is to turn the seat post around to move the saddle forward. The only problem with this is that you then usually have a badly handling bike. Sitting for long hours on a bike seat will effect some guys this way but not others. You can  buy saddles that have cut outs to take pressure of the pudendal nerve. This is the nerve that supplies the male genitals. This is what gets sat on on a bike saddle and can cause numbness for some.

Response:

I just got aero bars.  Wow, what a difference.  I love them. However…  For the first time ever I experience what I have heard other men talk about and that is numbness in the genitals. One thing I noticed is that, using the aero bars, I am in a down position for a longer period of time now.  Consequently, I spend more time in a more forward position on the saddle. Could that explain it?    And, does anyone alter their saddle position to compensate for this?  Perhaps tilting it down?

Response:

I strongly urge you to find a shop near you that specializes in tri setups (assuming that is what you are doing).  Placing aero bars on a road bike can potentially stretch you out, causing the problem you describe, as well as a loss of leg power.  There’s ways to correct this including changing your seatpost to give you a more forward position.  A knowledgable tri-shop can help you out. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I just got aero bars.  Wow, what a difference.  I love them. However…  For the first time ever I experience what I have heard other men talk about and that is numbness in the genitals. One thing I noticed is that, using the aero bars, I am in a down position for a longer period of time now.  Consequently, I spend more time in a more forward position on the saddle. Could that explain it?    And, does anyone alter their saddle position to compensate for this?  Perhaps tilting it down?

Response:

I second that. There are all kinds of things you could do, but the best advice will be from a knowledgeable bike shop employee who understands triathlon/time trial configuration. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I strongly urge you to find a shop near you that specializes in tri setups (assuming that is what you are doing).  Placing aero bars on a road bike can potentially stretch you out, causing the problem you describe, as well as a loss of leg power.  There’s ways to correct this including changing your seatpost to give you a more forward position.  A knowledgable tri-shop can help you out. I just got aero bars.  Wow, what a difference.  I love them. However…  For the first time ever I experience what I have heard other men talk about and that is numbness in the genitals. One thing I noticed is that, using the aero bars, I am in a down position for a longer period of time now.  Consequently, I spend more time in a more forward position on the saddle. Could that explain it?    And, does anyone alter their saddle position to compensate for this?  Perhaps tilting it down?

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Question:

How did this event go ???  How was the support on the course ??

Response:

The first ever Zoot Sports 5430 Triathlon was a success!!!  Safety and aid station support were the top concerns, and I think we succeeded on both of those areas.  Except for an occasional shortage of ice and Coke, the aid stations were fully stocked throughout the race and run by fantastic volunteers.  The feedback from the athletes has been mostly positive.  We also know that we have a lot of things to improve upon and we welcome all feedback to make it an even better race next year.   Beth Spiegel, my girlfriend, was the race director, which made me the assistant race director in the few days leading up to the race.  The athletes were fantastic and we were honored that they trusted us enough to do such a big event.  The 1000 volunteers were first class and they knew how to treat the athletes.  There are so many people that put in so many hours, and we have had so many wonderful compliments on the work of those volunteers.  The sponors were also fantastic – without the title sponsorship of Zoot Sports the race would not have happened.  Zoot provided great running shirts to all entrants, and Vito, Julia and others from Zoot came out and did a relay. Plans are underway for year two of the event and we hope to make the second edition bigger and better.   Check out the message board at www.5430tri.com for results feedback from participants.  A special thanks to triathlon legend Scott Molina for coming all the way from New Zealand to do the race!

Response:

Question:

Is it a foupa (SP?) to add aero bars to a regular road bike?  I’ve heard a  bit about the seat angle thing, but don’t really understand what that means or if it matters. What do you experts think?

Here’s what one expert (Dan Empfield) thinks: This is the all-important question because the aero bar (triathlon bar) is not just an accessory one attaches to one’s bike; the aero bar actually turns the bike into a sort of front recumbent in which the rider attaches and weights himself to the bike using different parts of his body. It is an entirely new riding position that requires a rethinking of how the frame should be designed to take maximum advantage of the aero position. So the explanation below will describe the benefits of this position, the advantages to it, things to watch out for, and at the end you’ll understand why tri bikes are made the way they are. Basically, realize that there’s a significant shift in weight that the front-end must acccommodate. For some people this issue must be addressed, for others it’s merely an interesting difference in riding. The key words above are "maximum advantage." Maximum advantage is not for everyone. See the full article for more: http://www.slowtwitch.com/mainheadings/techctr/bikefit.html –stv FWIW, Dan Empfield hangs out here, runs the slowtwitch site, and used to run Quintana Roo bicylces. Before you buy.

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I use a road bike. Profile Designs makes a seat post called the Front Forward that sort of does what you want. It only costs about $60 and works great for me. I too, was too stretched out, and this made all the difference in the world. And if your seat is uncomfortable – try a Serfas Dual-Density Pro saddle. (Of course everyone has their favorite saddle…) – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – faux pas Is it a foupa (SP?) to add aero bars to a regular road bike?  I’ve heard a bit about the seat angle thing, but don’t really understand what that means or if it matters.  What do you experts think? Andrea

Response:

Generally no problem. But consider 2 points: If you want to ride a road-bike frame (relaxed seat-angle) you have two choices: I: Getting the mentioned "forward" post for your existing (or regular roady-sized) frame to accommodate the shorter distance between saddle and handle/aerobars NEGS: This can compromise weight distribution and handling of the bike to a greater extent and a lot of people don’t like it because it can be flat out dangerous (strong braking during a switchback-descent—–horror !) POS: If you only want to try out triathlon or plan to compete once ore twice a year you will be fine. You can easily convert the bike back to a road-bike your roady-friends can accept. II: Getting a smaller frame with a top-tube length around the length of your torso and with a short head-tube) : NEGS: Results in a little "nervous" handling of the bike due to the shorter wheelbase (might be positive for criterium-style courses) and requires some hip-flexibility due to the steeper hip-angle. Additionally you will get a ear-full from your roady-friends about correct frame-sizing. POS: Does not compromise weight distribution that much and you can still retrofit this bike to a somewhat decent road geometry with a longer and upwards angled stem even if you mostly ride with a aero-setup. MOST IMPORTANT: Get practical advice from somebody who knows how to proper set up a (moderate) aeroposition (experienced athlete, coach, bike-shop that caters Triathletes) trInIc

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – faux pas Is it a foupa (SP?) to add aero bars to a regular road bike?  I’ve heard a bit about the seat angle thing, but don’t really understand what that means or if it matters.  What do you experts think? Andrea

Response:

Is it a foupa (SP?) to add aero bars to a regular road bike?  I’ve heard a bit about the seat angle thing, but don’t really understand what that means or if it matters.  What do you experts think? Andrea

Response:

I’m not aware of it being unorthodox of putting aero bars on a road bike.  One problem you may have is that your "cockpit" is too large thus extending your arms too far out infront of you.  Also, you probably wont be able to get into a very good aerodynamic position because of this.  That’s why Profile makes the fastforward seat tube(other companies make it too, but profile’s is cheapest) which moves the rider further up onto your aerobars.  Also, the seat tube changes the seat tube angle slightly, I think. –jeremy b

Response:

In Europe, especially in France, most bikes used in triathlon are typical road bikes with aero bars. Regarding the seat tube angle and running after the bike, it is a matter of biomechanics. Some specialists agree with the 78 angle (Triathlon), others do not, as usually. I know very strong runners that are using a 73d angle and are running very fast. The same applies for steeper angles use. The approach seems to be a bit less radical with more and more seat tube angles from 74 to 77-78. Anyway, we also use pure Triathlon bikes with the aero bars setup (most often because of the drafted events – and it is easier to dismount the aero bars for such events – even if drafting sucks by the way). So, up to you. Olivier Is it a foupa (SP?) to add aero bars to a regular road bike?  I’ve heard a bit about the seat angle thing, but don’t really understand what that means or if it matters.  What do you experts think? Andrea

Before you buy.

Response:

faux pas

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Is it a foupa (SP?) to add aero bars to a regular road bike?  I’ve heard a bit about the seat angle thing, but don’t really understand what that means or if it matters.  What do you experts think? Andrea

Response:

Andrea, I ride a road bike with aero bars.  When I first set it up with the original seat post, I was way too stretched out and also lacked any efficiency in pedaling.  Lucky for me the local bike shop guru gave me a titanium seat post that was used but that could be turned around and then I slid the seat forward and voila (thought we should continue with the French here) it was great.  Control Tech makes an aluminum post that is just like the ti one I have. So, It is not a faux pas, but you need to experiment a bit to get it right.  From what I have read, by doing this retro fit you put too much weight on the front wheel, which can make handling dicey. I have been riding since the early 80’s so it didn’t take too long to adapt. Good luck–I hope this helps Mike Scott faux pas Is it a foupa (SP?) to add aero bars to a regular road bike?  I’ve heard a bit about the seat angle thing, but don’t really understand what that means or if it matters.  What do you experts think? Andrea

Before you buy.

Response:

I have a set of clip on aero bars that I’ve used for over 5 years and they work great. There is the prostate thing though, so you want to make sure that you adjust the angle of your saddle to take this into account. When I first started using these I noticed right off a little numbness and that was before this problem started getting attention. They do make a big difference, gave me a much better aero postion but I can never stay down that low for a long period of time… Mike Before you buy.

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Question:

I’m looking for some help to prepare my first Ironman. I raced since 1993 in the OD and last year I did my first LD triathlon. I training about 20-25 hours/week. As duathlete I took part to many Powerman races. Anyone can give me some suggestion, or tell me where, in the web, can I find something interesting about? Thanks! www.paolalenzi.com * Sent from AltaVista http://www.altavista.com Where you can also find related Web Pages, Images, Audios, Videos, News, and Shopping.  Smart is Beautiful

Response:

I would suggest the FAQ as your first location.  Go to www.deja.com and do a powersearch for the FAQ in rec.sport.triathlon A good book to buy is Serious Training For Endurance Athletes, By Sleamaker & Browning.  It is available at www.amazon.com If you have specific questions then you can post here.  The people on the list are quite friendly. Good luck, gordo

Response:

I’m looking for some help to prepare my first Ironman. I raced since 1993 in the OD and last year I did my first LD triathlon. I training about 20-25 hours/week. As duathlete I took part to many Powerman races. Anyone can give me some suggestion, or tell me where, in the web, can I find something interesting about? Thanks!

Check out the following website: http://members.spree.com/supercoach/ Good luck!  If you’re already training 20-25 hours a week, I’d be careful about burning out.  I think my max week ever was 20 hours! TriBaby                                     _                                   –    o      ’             –  __o       –    </_  `     ‘         –    <         – __/    /o_         – (()) (())        -  / "Real triathletes don’t draft." http://www.stanford.edu/~brooksie *New to triathlon?  Check out Hulaman’s Simple TriTips:  http://www.hulaman.com/triathlon/tritips.html    

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Question:

Ron: You are in luck. There are plenty of group workouts during the week that begin at the local Triathlon Store. Give Jerry Frostick a call at Final Kick Sports. (757) 481-3400. Cheers- Keith — Ironman Triathlon Wetsuits Website: www.ironmanwetsuits.com toll free order line: 800-897-6464 international calls: 804-288-6000

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’ll be in the Virginia Beach area next week on business and was curious if there are any scheduled runs or swims next Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday?  Also is there a good Tri Store in the area? Thanks Ron Fry

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I’ll be in the Virginia Beach area next week on business and was curious if there are any scheduled runs or swims next Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday?  Also is there a good Tri Store in the area? Thanks Ron Fry

Response:

Question:

Who’s planning on going?

Can’t answer your other questions, but I’m considering this race for next year, used to live in Sonoma(beautiful area).  Have a question to add.  What kind of time would I need to qualify for Kona(in the full IM)?  30-34 male. Tim Hignett Buaidh No Bas http://members.aol.com/hignett/index.html

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: Who’s planning on going? : Can’t answer your other questions, but I’m considering this race for next year, : used to live in Sonoma(beautiful area).  Have a question to add.  What kind of : time would I need to qualify for Kona(in the full IM)?  30-34 male. My friend got the last spot in this age group this year and he finished in about 10h17′. As far as I know it was around 9h20′ in 1997. What a difference! Phil — Swiss Federal Institute of Technology ETHZ          Tel: +41-1-632 25 29 Institute of Robotics, CH-8092 Zuerich              Fax: +41-1-632 10 78           —– The second is the first loser <<<<<—–

Response:

: time would I need to qualify for Kona(in the full IM)?  30-34 male. My friend got the last spot in this age group this year and he finished in about 10h17′. As far as I know it was around 9h20′ in 1997. What a difference!

It was MUCH hotter this year than in ‘97, which might account (at least somewhat) for the difference. Tri-Baby                                      _                                   –    o      ’             –  __o       –    </_  `     ‘         –    <         – __/    /o_         – (()) (())        -  / "REAL Triathletes don’t draft." *** Ironman Canada 1997 – 13:04:09 *** http://www.stanford.edu/~brooksie        

Response:

I’ll be back next year for the 1/2 as a last hard weekend before IMC. This was my first year doing Vineman and I was very impressed with the quallity of the race and the beauty of the course. Here are the numbers in th race lit. Vineman P.O. Box 6007 Santa Rosa, Ca. 95406 (707)528-1630 Mark Rinaldi Inland Inferno Triathlon Club http://members.aol.com/infernotri/home.htm

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – : time would I need to qualify for Kona(in the full IM)?  30-34 male. My friend got the last spot in this age group this year and he finished in about 10h17′. As far as I know it was around 9h20′ in 1997. What a difference! It was MUCH hotter this year than in ‘97, which might account (at least somewhat) for the difference. In addition, the swim in 97 was a lot shorter. jeff.

10 minutes shorter in ‘97 for me! Ron Urman

Response:

: time would I need to qualify for Kona(in the full IM)?  30-34 male. My friend got the last spot in this age group this year and he finished in about 10h17′. As far as I know it was around 9h20′ in 1997. What a difference! It was MUCH hotter this year than in ‘97, which might account (at least somewhat) for the difference.

In addition, the swim in 97 was a lot shorter. jeff.

Response:

A couple of questions regarding the Vineman triathlon: Does the full IM at Vineman fill up?

Usually not. When are applications available?

They usually send out "early apps" at Christmas time, believe it or not. How can I get an app?

Call the Vineman office.  I don’t have the number offhand, but you can probably find it listed in a recent issue of Inside Triathlon or Triathlete. Who’s planning on going?

I’ll probably be there for the half-IM once again next year. Tri-Baby                                      _                                   –    o      ’             –  __o       –    </_  `     ‘         –    <         – __/    /o_         – (()) (())        -  / "REAL Triathletes don’t draft." *** Ironman Canada 1997 – 13:04:09 *** http://www.stanford.edu/~brooksie        

Response:

A couple of questions regarding the Vineman triathlon: Does the full IM at Vineman fill up? When are applications available? How can I get an app? Who’s planning on going? Thanks, John Fenner Fairfax, Virginia

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Question:

I’m considering doing a half ironman next summer not really to race but to finish and learn a bit and enjoy it.  It will also be a family vacation too so other attractions are important.  What half IM courses out there do you all like and are pretty?  Where are they and when? (july or august preferred)  What else can you do in the area?   Thanks a lot, TriTeen P.S. 4 weeks and counting to triathlon #2!!!

Response:

See the extremetri web site at http://www.extremetri.com/races/mid/index.html         Theres a list of many half IM and many have links to their own site. Diane

Response:

I’m considering doing a half ironman next summer not really to race but to finish and learn a bit and enjoy it.  It will also be a family vacation too so other attractions are important.  What half IM courses out there do you all like and are pretty?  Where are they and when? (july or august preferred)  What else can you do in the area? Thanks a lot, TriTeen P.S. 4 weeks and counting to triathlon #2!!!

You might consider the Florida Challenge in Sept. Its a challenging course, pretty scenic, and best of all for your family you’re only 20 miles from Orlando and the various Mouse attractions. Cheers, Bernie Sher

Response:

I’m considering doing a half ironman next summer not really to race but to finish and learn a bit and enjoy it.  It will also be a family vacation too so other attractions are important.  What half IM courses out there do you all like and are pretty?  Where are they and when? (july or august preferred)  What else can you do in the area?  

Most definitely consider the Pacific Crest 1/2 IM near Bend, Oregon.  This year’s race is June 27th.  Dennis McMinn ("mracg") has just written a great post about this race, if you need more details. Greg Pressler

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Question:

Okay we allow drafting at all Triathlon events.  Done deal.  How do we encourage stronger cyclist to "go it alone" or together and ride away from top runners who might "sit -in".  How about 1.5K, 40K, 5K.  This might entice top cyclists to try and gain 30-40 seconds and hold on till the finish.  The runners might have to go harder on the bike to maintain contact?  Just an Idea.

Response:

If you want to keep down the drafting, instead of shortening the run leg, why don’t races switch the bike and run.  ex. 1.5k swim, 10k run, 40k bike.  This would deffinetly increase someones motive to pull away on the bike, and make the swim more important.  A 30sec to 1min lead out of the water is tougher to make up running a 10k than biking 40k. Jay

Response:

The only thing about drafting that’s a "done deal" is the USAT is not going to allow it, and we are going to insure ITU gets rid of it.  Any questions? Cooter

Response:

The only thing about drafting that’s a "done deal" is the USAT is not going to allow it, and we are going to insure ITU gets rid of it.  Any questions? Cooter

Once again Cooter you’re my hero! Keep up the great work. Bernie Sher

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Question:

I am thinking about doing my first marathon in 2 weeks.  My last long run will be about a 19 miler next week. I am concerned about this distance not being long enough before doing a marathon. I have completed many half marathons and about 6 half-ironmans. Being  a triathlete my  weeks of training are divided up between the 3 sports. Any  advice would be appreciated. I would like to do this early season marathon as part of my training for ironman Canada in August. Thanks, Tom Senff

Response:

I am thinking about doing my first marathon in 2 weeks.  My last long run will be about a 19 miler next week. I am concerned about this distance not being long enough before doing a marathon. I have completed many half marathons and about 6 half-ironmans. Being  a triathlete my  weeks of training are divided up between the 3 sports. Any  advice would be appreciated. I would like to do this early season marathon as part of my training for ironman Canada in August. Thanks, Tom Senff

You sound like you’re in pretty good shape.  A 19 miler should be enough.  That was the longest distance I ran while training for my first marathon – I had no problems finishing. Bud McMahon Sonoma, CA

Response:

I am thinking about doing my first marathon in 2 weeks.  My last long run will be about a 19 miler next week. I am concerned about this distance not being long enough before doing a marathon. I have completed many half marathons and about 6 half-ironmans. Being  a triathlete my  weeks of training are divided up between the 3 sports. Any  advice would be appreciated. I would like to do this early season marathon as part of my training for ironman Canada in August. Thanks, Tom Senff

Tom: If you’re anywhere near the fitness level you were at for a Half-Ironman, you shouldn’t have any real difficulty doing the marathon – altho the two are quite different critters. I’ve done both, too. The marathon is much more punishing on the legs and replenishing is harder (you don’t have the bike leg to stoke up on). My usual advice for first time marathoners  - go out self-consciously slower for the first mile, then settle into a comfortable pace. Don’t let the adrenaline and excitement cause you to go out too fast. You will regret it later. Have fun and let us know how it went. Mike Tennent WebRunner Running Page — Southeast USA Race Calendar 200+ listings. Advertise your race. FTP Race Apps, FAQ http://www.webrunner.com/webrun/running/running.html

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Question:

I doubt Keith Casserly would get more press if he went into cycling.  Not to say that he would not do well, I just don’t see that he would get more ink.  And if it is the spotlight in the media he seeks, perhaps he should turn pro, however I’m not even sure it that is what he wants since he was not the one sending out this thread. Diana McLaughlin  

Response:

Not to make light of an impressive performance, but perhaps since Mr. Casserly would have placed in the pro field, he should have raced in the pro field. Why should he get more coverage than the pro’s of a similar speed? There are few sports that allow this level of organized competition against one’s peers in 5 year age slots. Normally this would be an open age group and perhaps a masters age group, but the latter only for interests sake. Bob Wooff

good point bob. the phenomenon of age group national championships, world championships and the like is exclusive to the sport of triathlon. but instead of appreciating this great unique system brought to us by  itu, tri-fed, tri-canada and other national governing bodies,  there seems to be constant gripping by top age-groupers about not getting enough coverage in the media or getting overshadowed by the pros. this is rediculous. be thankful for what you have and if you want the ink and footage the pros get, RACE WITH THEM. as for mr. casserly, who reportedly was thinking of packing it in because the tri media was passing him up,  what the heck are you in the sport for? it’s sad to think a person’s major motivation to race could come from possible fame and fortune through tri mags. em

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writes: You posting regarding this unfulfilled promise was on made on November 14, over 2 months after the event

My posting was actually 6 years and over 2 months after the event. I did the race in ‘89. I just wanted to point out that the trouble with the Chicago race has been present for a long time and with different race directors and sponsors. Next years race will bring a new set of problems for the race, which are multiplied by trying to cram so many people onto a course. If they really want to host a National Championship that will be respected they should let about 4000 less people race on raceday. Louis Pelissier

Response:

Regarding the recent posting by Louis Pelissier about his missing equipment and the "race director not keeping his promise", I am curious as to when the promise was made, and if Louis has been in contact with the race office to allow them to fufill this promise. Louis, I am sure whomever you spoke to at the race had good intentions, but there are literally hundreds of people working on the race and just as many post race requests and phone calls. You posting regarding this unfulfilled promise was on made on November 14, over 2 months after the event. Have you contacted the race office in  the two months  between the race and your posting to allow them to answer your request? I am confident that your request will be presented to the race director if you will call the office directly. You can reach them at 312/404-2293.

Response:

I don’t want to keep dumping on Chicago, but I will.  It wasn’t the lack of organization, et. al. that will keep me from returning, but rather the "disappearance" of my new Oakleys and my bike pump.  I lent my pump to someone in the pre-dawn hours, and he never returned it.  My Oakleys were not in my helmet when I returned from the swim.  I had just bought them (for way to much $$$) just the week before.  A friend of mine from Chicago said that I should have covered up my sunglasses with a T-shirt so no one would take them.  I have done a lot of races, and it never even occured to me that someone would steal your stuff.  Call me naive, but I’ll stick to the smaller races. Poor security and no "lost and found" made for a very frustrating day. Jim

Response:

I did my first Mrs. T’s this year.  I thought it was a BLAST.  All the way from peeing in the bushes by the aquarium before the start, to trying to find my bike amidst thousands, to cruising down the flat bike course (drafting cars!),  to encountering the BIG names on the run and finishing "just before" Spencer Smith.  I thought it was amazingly well organized, without being run like a military facility.  The volunteers were smiling despite the heat.  The competitors were generally a happy lot also. It wasn’t perfect.  But it was worth the long trip from Charlotte.             Byron Walthall

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I did the Chicago race back in 1989 when it was sponsored by the Sun-Times. 5000 people, not enough water on the run, no results to be found at the end, Sound familiar? To top it off my bike, wetsuit, and clothes were stolen from the transition area during the race! The race director promised to replace the bike & equipment (~$900) but never kept his promise. I doubt I’ll ever do that race again even if the mistake is made again to make it an IQ event. Louis Pelissier

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In response to your posting about the race director never keeping his promise to replace your missing equipment, I am positive that the promise was made in good faith. Your posting was made in mid-November, almost 2 1/2 months after the event.  Have you had any contact with the race office since the event to allow the race official to fulfill this promise? Although I am sure whomever you spoke with at the race had good intensions, there are literally hundreds of people who work on the race, and there are just as many post-event requests and calls. If you would be kind enough to contact the race office by phone, 312/404-2293, I am sure that you request will be presented to the race director.

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good point bob. the phenomenon of age group national championships, world championships and the like is exclusive to the sport of triathlon. but instead of appreciating this great unique system brought to us by  itu, tri-fed, tri-canada and other national governing bodies,

I don’t think that is entirely true. Flame me if i’m wrong… but doesn’t golf have amateur championships and title events?  I read quite  a bit about this Tiger Woods amateur golf wiz. Bodybuilding, though not considered a true "sport" by some (but get ready it’s making progress towards Olympic status) has amateur titles that are in the mags and on ESPN TV. I’m sure there are others.  there seems to be constant gripping by top age-groupers about not getting enough coverage in the media or getting overshadowed by the pros.<<

True. The bitching does get way out of hand at times, but I think a true amateur championship like the one at  Columbia last year and Leon’s before that were  really interesting and important events. Some of our rookie and semi-rookie pros–Tim and Tony DeBoom, Maryellen Powers, Bill McLaughlin, Kirsten Wuele, Debbie Hornsby, Marcel Vivian, Marci Cantu, Lauren Maule, Nick Radkewich, Lauren Alexander, Nate Llerandi graduated from these high-profile races. And a totally focused championship can highlight other top master athletes like Missy Le Strange, Cliff Rigsbee, David Crawford, Bad Boy Bill Schweizer and Ethel Autorino ( and of course rst grande dame Ruth Kazez). These are inspiring athletes who might be otherwise unknown on a national level. be  thankful for what you have and if you want the ink and footage the pros get, RACE WITH THEM.

One high-profile (Olympic distance) age group race a year, isn’t asking too much. Triathlon is mostly an age group sport in the US. Having one TV show and a few insightful feature articles would seem normal. Mrs. T’s IMHO was not the race and Jan Caille not the race director for an age group nationals. Just Compare the coverage and good will with years past. Better luck with Orange County and Jack Caress next year. He hosted the age group nationals in 1992–any vets remember NCC? — JJ

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I was not the one upset that they did not cover me in the magazines.  Those details don’t bother me.  I’m in the sport bc. I love it.  My goal in this sport is not be a cover model.  The press does what ever it does to make a profit, pure and simple, and they print wantever sells.  I am bothered that the National Championships was a joke.  I’m sure every pro/ elite athlete has asked him/her self if this is the sport for me, and that is the question I am podering.  If I was to leave the sport it would not be because I didn’t get enough ink, that’s messed up.         Keith Casserly

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Top Amateurs getting shafted? Is all a matter of perspective I think. Now with 220 and Multisport added to the list of tri magazines there is more coverage for amateurs than ever before. An age grouper is never going to get the recognition a top Pro gets ($$$) . In fact many of the top age groupers are house hold names in our tri world and there are many pros no one knows. But wait a minute, I think is way healthier to get personal satisfaction from your accomplishments and from achieving your personal goals,  than from the number of times your name appears on a tri magazine. Those external things are just icing on the cake. Only a very few can get press coverage. Those who do the sport just for that do not last very long in my opinion. If national recognition is what people want then calling Geraldo with an  outrageous story would do it. He will probably put you on his national televised show. Luis Vargas

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I am bothered that the National Championships was a joke.

And the worst part of it is, that Mrs. T’s was so awful in 1995 that they have been rewarded for 1996 by being selected as an Ironman Qualifier again. It’s disgusting what political connections will get you. Cathy Corning

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I have a succinct (if somewhat coarse) saying that summatizes the politics involved: It’ not what you know….it’s who you blow. and don’t forget that style will always win ove substance. (I don’t know why but it always does)

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In the mid -atlantic area Skylands Triathlon for the past four years has hosted AGE GROUPERS only and we reward the winners with over $5000 in cash each year. In 1996 we will celebrate our 10th anniversary and are already planning a very festive occasion. Over the years the very best men and women amateurs have particapated at Skylands. Tri-it–you’ll like-it. Hank Palmer

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: if it does not slide back into a second year of disasters, deserves : on the face of it, to be one of about 15 U.S. Ironman qualifiers. I disagree.  No race under a 1/2 IM should be given qualifier status. *   |       *   *     *                                                      * /|  *    *     *        Eric Roseme                                     *  /|   *     *       *    Hewlett-Packard, Information Networks Division    *//|\     /   /    *                                                      ///|\ *      \                                                   |       *  // *                                                                         \                                                                            \                                                        

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Not to make light of an impressive performance, but perhaps since Mr. Casserly would have placed in the pro field, he should have raced in the pro field. Why should he get more coverage than the pro’s of a similar speed? There are few sports that allow this level of organized competition against one’s peers in 5 year age slots. Normally this would be an open age group and perhaps a masters age group, but the latter only for interests sake. Bob Wooff I thought it was an interesting coincidence that Benjamin posted this, as I’d just been thinking in the past few days how remarkable it is that, even in the triathlon magazines, Keith Casserly doesn’t get more coverage. I don’t know Keith personally, but raced at Greater Hartford this past summer, where he left an impressive field pretty far back in his dust, and noticed that he not only was the fastest age-grouper overall at Mrs. T’s but would have placed had he been in the Pro’s — yet got almost no mention in race coverage in any of the tri magazines I was catching up on in the past week.

 [other stuff clipped] – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –Rory Stuart

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sorry, keith that we didn’t do more of you in our magazine, but unlike some of the other tri mags, we did manage to get your name and results/placing in the story. billkatovsky multisport magazine sausalito, ca.

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Is anyone else seriously disturbed by the fact that the top US Amateurs got next-to-no coverage for Mrs T’s? I train with the Men’s Amateur winner, Keith Casserly, and it really annoys and angers me that he only got about 6 sentences in _Inside Triathlete_, about 2 sentences in _220_ and ABSOLUTELY NOTHING in _Triathlete_.  How can we expect American Triathlon to thrive in the future when we fail to recognize our top amateurs today? I’ve talk to Keith quite frequently, and he’s quite upset, and is considering even quitting triathlon and concentrating on cycling instead. Keith even gave up a definite NCAA Cross-country chance to train for triathlon this summer. He devotes all his time to Triathlon, and settles for 5 or 6th man on the x-country team, giving up his chance at NCAAs and Brown’s chance at an Eastern title. How can he take triathlon seriously after almost not being recognized after winning? He didn’t even know that he won the event until a couple days after the race? What type of governing body permits such atrocities? At least in cycling, he can expect some coverage, some encouragement, and a few well organized competitions (especially in the National championships). How is it that in such a popular and up-and-coming sport such as triathlon, such things can occur to amateurs? I know that in any other sport (swimming, running, cycling, etc) the top amateurs would receive much more due credit than Keith’s received for his win. Benjamin H. Kleine Brown University http://www.netspace.org/~darken/

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Yet another great argument for a National’s-only race.  Meaning qualified amatuers only, NO pros, NO citizens.  Like Columbia last year.   This race allows us to showcase the best amatuers in the country with no distractions, like the chicago Zoo.   The athletes also get a chance to experience the kind of special treatment usually reserved for pros only. Imagine working hard all season, qualifing for national’s, and going to an invite-only race where you know only the best will be.  All the athletes you come into contact with at pre-race, at the 7-11 buying Gatorade, driving to race site at 5am, and racing are like you – among the best in their age-groups in the country.  Now that will get people psyched to race for a long time.  Special treatment works great.  The tri-media will all be there and give great coverage because there is nothing else to cover. I qualified this year, but knew I had no chance of making World’s, so I did not subject myself to the chicago Zoo.  If there was a nationals-only race nothing would have kept me away.  It is not that I have anything against chicago per se, I think our sport needs mega-events like this, but it is the WRONG venue for nationals.  You do not see the Olympic marathon trials run at the NYC marathon.  If Tri-fed really wants to promote elite amatuer triathlon they should make nationals it’s own race. AC

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Shafted is an understatement.  Not one mention of Keith Casserly in the November issueof Triathlete.  The National Age Group Champ without any ink.  Triathlete really dropped the ball on the coverage of this race. Brian L.  

Personally, I think all magazines have dropped the ball ever since Lew Kidder dropped Triathlon Today.  Talk about amateur recognition, almost every single race in America published its results in there.  There were pictures, personalized race reports, and complete results.  What do we have now?  Inside Triathlon with its VeloNews format and style. Triathletes are not like pro riders and should not be covered in the same manner.  The routes of the Tour de France, Giro d’Italia etc. do not have amateur cyclists on the road at the same time as the professionals.  In triathlons, not only do amateurs race the same courses but sometimes, we share the same bike racks, the same registration tables and even the same port-o-johns.  With all of this interaction at races, why should we be interested in only reading about the pros and not even hearing about the best in our respective age-divisions.  Clearly Inside Triathlon puts the pros of the triathlon world on an pedestal.  Some deserve this special treatment but others do not.  This pedastal is reached by standing on the heads of the outstanding age-groupers who receive no press.  Please do not get me wrong.  The pro’s are the absolute elite of our sport but in no way does that mean that age-grouper with superb performances should be outright ignored.    I know Keith Casserly personally.  He is not black and 300 pounds, he does not ride a bike with a sex doll and he is not over 70 years old. These credentials seem to be the only characteristics that are marketable in age-group competition at the moment.  Something needs to change.  Too many outstanding amateur triathletes are not getting the well earned recognition that they deserve. Doug

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Yet another great argument for a National’s-only race.  Meaning qualified amatuers only, NO pros, NO citizens.      *snip* You do not see the Olympic marathon trials run at the NYC marathon.  If Tri-fed really wants to promote elite amatuer triathlon they should make nationals it’s own race. AC

Hear, hear!  It makes absolutely no sense to me to clutter up the National Championships with Pros and Citizens.  It’s as if the nation’s best age-groupers just aren’t "important" enough on their own to rate a closed race.   I don’t know if it bugged anyone else, but I was rather disgusted by the cover of the October Inside Triathlon.  Not because of the "friend" on the back of the guy’s bike, but because this was a photograph from our sport’s National Championship event, and here IT chose to stick this fat, hairy slob with his questionable sense of humor on the cover.  I’m just as happy as anyone to see newcomers to the sport and the less-than-serious athletes out there, but I think coverage of the Nationals deserves just a little more dignity.  It’s insulting to all those age groupers who work so hard to get there.  For any other event, sure, what the hell!  Stick this guy on the cover, it *is* kind of funny, and reminds us all not to take triathlon too seriously.  For Nationals, though, it’s the top age groupers competing for berths on Team USA who deserve the spotlight.  It’s one race where, yeah, it’s ok to be a bit more serious. Just my $.02. 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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Regarding "Top amateur athletes getting shafted": My husband Bill McLaughlin decided to turn Pro during the middle of his season for that very reason.   We saw that things were changing and it seemed that no one would know or care who won Nationals, that it would hold no weight anymore. Actually, I still haven’t received results so I’m still not clear who won the women’s title.  At the awards they announced Jill Neumann, but the next day in the local newspaper it said Linda Neary and Jill Neumann had identical times?!! After Jeffrey Justice left Triathlete and then resigned from 220 and Lou Kidder gone, there isn’t anyone left that really knows the amatuer scene. Too bad.  I will miss those days. Diana McLaughlin

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How is it that in such a popular and up-and-coming sport such as triathlon, such things can occur to amateurs? I know that in any other sport (swimming, running, cycling, etc) the top amateurs would receive much more due credit than Keith’s received for his win.

I agree completely and this is one of the reasons (amatuer nationals lumped with other races) I didn’t spend $500+ to go to *nationals*. The main problem is that nationals shouldn’t be rotated on an annual basis.  I believe it should be a race people strive for and set goals to qualify.  That’s what has made nationals special in the past.  It is also nice to have the same course for several years so times are at least somewhat comparable from year to year.  TriFed should pick the national site and give the race director a multi-year contract (say 3-5 years). This gives the race director chances to make improvements, get more local sponsorship, special hotel rates etc… I never competed at Leons, but do you think his first championship race was as good as his last?  I know Hilton Head definitely made improvements as the years went by… In any case, let’s keep the amatuer nationals a separate race! Pat    W.Patrick Brug, Ph.D.  _-           -_    Los Alamos National Lab -__       __-                                       /    cis:      72410,3372        /  

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Is anyone else seriously disturbed by the fact that the top US Amateurs got next-to-no coverage for Mrs T’s? I train with the Men’s Amateur winner, Keith Casserly, and it really annoys and angers me that he only got about 6 sentences in _Inside Triathlete_, about 2 sentences in _220_ and ABSOLUTELY NOTHING in _Triathlete_.  How can we expect American Triathlon to thrive in the future when we fail to recognize our top amateurs today? I’ve talk to Keith quite frequently, and he’s quite upset, and is considering even quitting triathlon [clip...]

I thought it was an interesting coincidence that Benjamin posted this, as I’d just been thinking in the past few days how remarkable it is that, even in the triathlon magazines, Keith Casserly doesn’t get more coverage. I don’t know Keith personally, but raced at Greater Hartford this past summer, where he left an impressive field pretty far back in his dust, and noticed that he not only was the fastest age-grouper overall at Mrs. T’s but would have placed had he been in the Pro’s — yet got almost no mention in race coverage in any of the tri magazines I was catching up on in the past week. While people in the U.S. bemoan the lack of up-and-coming Americans in the sport, here’s this amazing athlete in his early 20’s who is never mentioned. Does one really need a PR firm’s services to get any attention in these magazines? I, for one, would love to read more about how this guy trains, what his athletic background is, and how he manages to do these races so much faster than the rest of us! Benjamin, for what it’s worth, please let Keith know that there is at least one recreational triathlete out here whom he doesn’t know but who is hoping that Keith sticks with the sport and represents the U.S. at the 2000 olympics… Also, I realize this won’t address the bigger issue but, if you could find a moment to write a post to rst about his training program and race results for this year, I think some of us would be interested. -Rory Stuart

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