My Vote would to to Kirsten Hansen, she is one who will bring back great memories for all of us who have bene involved in the sport for many years. She won about everything outside of Ironman and was always a great representative for our sport. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Curious to know who you think is the greatest US Female triathlete of all time and why? -Richd
My Vote would to to Kirsten Hansen, she is one who will bring back great memories for all of us who have bene involved in the sport for many years. She won about everything outside of Ironman and was always a great representative for our sport.
I’m with you, Charles. I remember when my daughters were aged 4 and 5, they would pretend play "triathlon" and each would argue that she was "Kirsten Hansen" until I would have to intervene and tell them they would have to take turns being Kirsten Hansen. She was a great role model. -Charlie
Curious to know who you think is the greatest US Female triathlete of all time and why? -Richd
Paula is undoubtedly the greatest female *Ironman* triathlete of all time from anywhere, but most of her accomplishments predate her recent naturalization as a US citizen. I see the question does ask for "the greatest *US* Female triathlete". I am paying attention. Gotta be Karen Smyers…at any distance…even without the "US". cheers, Andrew — Andrew Peabody/Karen Fisher Coconut Grove, FL
- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Curious to know who you think is the greatest US Female triathlete of all time and why? -Richd Paula is undoubtedly the greatest female *Ironman* triathlete of all time from anywhere, but most of her accomplishments predate her recent naturalization as a US citizen. I see the question does ask for "the greatest *US* Female triathlete". I am paying attention. Gotta be Karen Smyers…at any distance…even without the "US". cheers, Andrew
I agree with Andrew completely on this: No contest in the Ironman/long-distance area – PNF by a hot and humid Hawaiian mile. However, as pointed out much, of her truely outstanding achievements came prior to her gaining US citizenship. For best overall, perhaps in the world, there is little doubt that Karen Smyers is #1. The last of the old school – great at any distance in any format at any time! Steve Fleck
My condolences, great game though. Trialot – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I don’t think it needs a public declaration…;-) Phil | | | Don’t you hate it when you say "I’m from South Africa" and some | idiot | | asks | | "Oh, do you know so and so?" 
| | | | | | Idiot? well you said it. | | By the way your English aren’t you? Care to place a friendly wager | on | | the outcome of Friday’s cricket match? | | | | Phil | | How much and which way? 
| | | | | Trialot "at least I’ve got a tan" | | | | | | Before you buy. | | | | I’ll take South Africa to win, of course. Remember we’ve got Zulu & | Pollock (pity Donald’s out). As for how much, with the GBP:ZAR at | 9.9933 wholesale (about 10.20 retail) I think we’ll have to stick to | some kind of forfeit, maybe a public declartion (on RST) of the other | teams superiority. What thinks you? | | Trialot | | P.S. What’s with the SPANNER in your e-mail addy? Got something to do | with that glamourous pic of you in your swim cap ;-? | | | Before you buy.
Before you buy.
| Don’t you hate it when you say "I’m from South Africa" and some idiot | asks | "Oh, do you know so and so?" | | | Idiot? well you said it. | By the way your English aren’t you? Care to place a friendly wager on | the outcome of Friday’s cricket match? | | Phil How much and which way? | | Trialot "at least I’ve got a tan" | | | Before you buy.
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – | Don’t you hate it when you say "I’m from South Africa" and some idiot | asks | "Oh, do you know so and so?" | | | Idiot? well you said it. | By the way your English aren’t you? Care to place a friendly wager on | the outcome of Friday’s cricket match? | | Phil How much and which way? | | Trialot "at least I’ve got a tan" | | | Before you buy.
I’ll take South Africa to win, of course. Remember we’ve got Zulu & Pollock (pity Donald’s out). As for how much, with the GBP:ZAR at 9.9933 wholesale (about 10.20 retail) I think we’ll have to stick to some kind of forfeit, maybe a public declartion (on RST) of the other teams superiority. What thinks you? Trialot P.S. What’s with the SPANNER in your e-mail addy? Got something to do with that glamourous pic of you in your swim cap ;-? Before you buy.
I don’t think it needs a public declaration…;-) Phil
| | | Don’t you hate it when you say "I’m from South Africa" and some | idiot | | asks | | "Oh, do you know so and so?" | | | | | | Idiot? well you said it. | | By the way your English aren’t you? Care to place a friendly wager | on | | the outcome of Friday’s cricket match? | | | | Phil | | How much and which way? | | | | | Trialot "at least I’ve got a tan" | | | | | | Before you buy. | | | | I’ll take South Africa to win, of course. Remember we’ve got Zulu & | Pollock (pity Donald’s out). As for how much, with the GBP:ZAR at | 9.9933 wholesale (about 10.20 retail) I think we’ll have to stick to | some kind of forfeit, maybe a public declartion (on RST) of the other | teams superiority. What thinks you? | | Trialot | | P.S. What’s with the SPANNER in your e-mail addy? Got something to do | with that glamourous pic of you in your swim cap ;-? | | | Before you buy.
Curious to know who you think is the greatest US Female triathlete of all time and why? -Richd
Rich Davis Wrote Curious to know who you think is the greatest US Female triathlete of all time and why?
I can name that woman in 3 letters. PNF. If you have to ask why, then you haven’t been paying attention. Gary McMurtrey Inland Inferno Triathlon Club http://members.aol.com/infernotri/home.htm
Curious to know who you think is the greatest US Female triathlete of all time and why? I can name that woman in 3 letters. PNF. If you have to ask why, then you haven’t been paying attention.
US? slowman
Could have sworn she was from Zimbabwe. Phil
| Rich Davis Wrote | | Curious to know who you think is the greatest US Female triathlete of all | time and | why? | | I can name that woman in 3 letters. PNF. If you have to ask why, then you | haven’t been paying attention. | | Gary McMurtrey | Inland Inferno Triathlon Club | http://members.aol.com/infernotri/home.htm
Gary, Believe me, I have been paying attention, but I’m confused as to why you would mention PNF. I thought she was South African. I was more interested US not worldwide.
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Rich Davis Wrote Curious to know who you think is the greatest US Female triathlete of all time and why? I can name that woman in 3 letters. PNF. If you have to ask why, then you haven’t been paying attention. Gary McMurtrey Inland Inferno Triathlon Club http://members.aol.com/infernotri/home.htm
i guess that depends on whether or not you consider Paula to be "American." if so, she’s my vote, hands down. however, i think that most of her great victories came when she was still racing, technically, for Zimbabwe. in that case, my vote goes to Karen Smyers, an incredible athlete over every distance and a great person too. -mike
But isn’t Rhodesia what Zimbabwe used to be called? Phil
| X-No-Archive: yes | | Southern Rhodesia | | Could have sworn she was from Zimbabwe. | | [snip] | | | I can name that woman in 3 letters. PNF. If you have to ask why, then you | | haven’t been paying attention. |
- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Gary, Believe me, I have been paying attention, but I’m confused as to why you would mention PNF. I thought she was South African. I was more interested US not worldwide. Rich Davis Wrote Curious to know who you think is the greatest US Female triathlete of all time and why? I can name that woman in 3 letters. PNF. If you have to ask why, then you haven’t been paying attention.
I believe I heard from a couple of second-hand sources that she has dual citizenship in Zimbabwe and US. Can anyone verify this? |26 | IMC’96: 10:36:37 | Fe | IMCAL, IMC Y2K IMC’99: 10:45:03 | | "THE BEST ELEMENT OF RACING"
- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – But isn’t Rhodesia what Zimbabwe used to be called? Phil | X-No-Archive: yes | | Southern Rhodesia | | Could have sworn she was from Zimbabwe. | | [snip] | | | I can name that woman in 3 letters. PNF. If you have to ask why, then you | | haven’t been paying attention. |
Geesh! Was I the only one awake during geography? : )
PNF is now a full blooded citizen of the United States and unquestionably the best female triathlete (and most likely athlete in general) from any country. Don Herron
"Phil Squire" said: Yes, Rhodesia became Zimbabwe (named after the ruins of Africa’s oldest city) after their independance from England (‘82?). I understand that PNF is now a US citizen though. – Trialot "South of the Zim border" – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – But isn’t Rhodesia what Zimbabwe used to be called? Phil | X-No-Archive: yes | | Southern Rhodesia | | Could have sworn she was from Zimbabwe. | | [snip] | | | I can name that woman in 3 letters. PNF. If you have to ask why, then you | | haven’t been paying attention. |
Before you buy.
But does she count as US in the all time stakes? Simon Lessing was born and brought up in SA but has a British passport but I’m not sure he’s "British" other than for competitive reasons. Phil
| "Phil Squire" said: | | Yes, Rhodesia became Zimbabwe (named after the ruins of Africa’s oldest | city) after their independance from England (‘82?). | | I understand that PNF is now a US citizen though. | | – Trialot "South of the Zim border" | | | | But isn’t Rhodesia what Zimbabwe used to be called? | | Phil | | X-No-Archive: yes | | | | Southern Rhodesia | | | | Could have sworn she was from Zimbabwe. | | | | [snip] | | | | | I can name that woman in 3 letters. PNF. If you have to ask | why, then | you | | | haven’t been paying attention. | | | | | | | Before you buy.
No I was awake too Phil
| |
| | But isn’t Rhodesia what Zimbabwe used to be called? | | Phil | | X-No-Archive: yes | | | | Southern Rhodesia | | | | Could have sworn she was from Zimbabwe. | | | | [snip] | | | | | I can name that woman in 3 letters. PNF. If you have to ask why, then | you | | | haven’t been paying attention. | | | | Geesh! Was I the only one awake during geography? : ) |
But does she count as US in the all time stakes? Simon Lessing was born and brought up in SA but has a British passport but I’m not sure he’s "British" other than for competitive reasons. Phil
Phil, I guess that depends on the extent of your patriotism. In my view both countries have a claim on the glory (but then we, South African’s tend to be somewhat unpatriotic . Trialot "keep what you like and throw the rest out" Before you buy.
Last refuge of a scoundrel I have nothing against SL calling himself British, hey remember that "little girl" runner? What was her name? She got a passport ahead of folks who’d been waiting years! If you’re in SA, did you know Simon Lessing before he came to Europe? He used to hang out with a group which included a woman called Therese Charlton, who now lives in London. (UK) I’m not sure but I think it was around Durban, Pietermaritzberg (sp) or more probably Cape Town. I used to train with a cyclist from SA, J
Hi all, Only 10 days till the Columbia Triathlon. Does anyone know of the water temps so far? I have bad memories of 2 years ago with a bad case of hypothermia from the swim. Also Temps and CURRENTS for the Eagleman course. I don’t want to swim 2 miles again like last year because of the current. Thanks, S. Zachary
I will try to check the temp tomorrow during lunch, but expect it to be on the cold side, not much to warm it up yet, but should be warmer than two years ago. Bruce Platt – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi all, Only 10 days till the Columbia Triathlon. Does anyone know of the water temps so far? I have bad memories of 2 years ago with a bad case of hypothermia from the swim. Also Temps and CURRENTS for the Eagleman course. I don’t want to swim 2 miles again like last year because of the current. Thanks, S. Zachary
The automated weather buoy at Thomas Point Lighthouse on the Chesapeake Bay is reporting a water temperature of 61.5 degrees. The Choptank River should be within a couple of degrees of that. If you want to see for yourself the URL is: http://www.nws.fsu.edu/B/buoy?station=TPLM2#table — |Jeffrey Davis | Phone 
410) 309-8306 | |GTE Internetworking | Fax 410) 309-8315 | |9810 Patuxent Woods Drive | |
The Choptank is a wide, shallow estuary. It is usually much warmer than the bay, and even warmer than nearby rivers like the Tred Avon where the race first started. (Oxford) I am the first guy to complain about cold water, but I don’t think Cambridge will be a problem. It will be a nice wetsuit swim. Ray Plotecia Male Amateur, 50-54 Ruxton, MD – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – The automated weather buoy at Thomas Point Lighthouse on the Chesapeake Bay is reporting a water temperature of 61.5 degrees. The Choptank River should be within a couple of degrees of that. If you want to see for yourself the URL is: http://www.nws.fsu.edu/B/buoy?station=TPLM2#table — |Jeffrey Davis | Phone 410) 309-8306 | |GTE Internetworking | Fax 410) 309-8315 | |9810 Patuxent Woods Drive | |
Matt, Rest up and get well for the race. In my opinion, there’s very little to be gained from training in the week preceding the race. I wouldn’t worry – you won’t lose all that you worked for in a week that rapidly. In fact, you will have a better race if you heal up and get better. Good luck and hope you get well soon! -Kendall – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi, I’m 17 and Im doing the Wildflower in a week. I just got sick a day ago, it has something to do with my stomach and throat/breathing(maybe flu?). It is gonna be my first triathlon and now I’m kind of mad, you know to get sick a week before. I was wondering if it would be ok to just keep training despite the sickness? Or should I just rest and if so how much would that hurt my performace(not training)? Thank you very much Matt
I am a teen too. Most of the time when I am going to do my MOST important races, I do very very little the 4 days before the race, even when I am healthy. I always had great races. I have been told that this gives your body time to heal all the small problems that we don’t even feel. If you were in pretty good shape, it is better to take the time off and try to get better. You are not going to lose anything!!! Last year I got sick about a week before a race and tried to keep training, like you are thinking about doing. Half way through the race I died. My dad reminded me of what worked for me in the past. Most of those times, I was healthy, so what made me think working out before a race when I was sick was going to work better? When you are tired, what is the best thing to do? Stay up late for a couple of nights, or get extra rest for a couple of nights? Hope this helps GOOD LUCK at WF D.J. " I heard, when you get old (like over 30) it’s best to quit for the year and play cards " (IRONKID) – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi, I’m 17 and Im doing the Wildflower in a week. I just got sick a day ago, it has something to do with my stomach and throat/breathing(maybe flu?). It is gonna be my first triathlon and now I’m kind of mad, you know to get sick a week before. I was wondering if it would be ok to just keep training despite the sickness? Or should I just rest and if so how much would that hurt my performace(not training)? Thank you very much Matt
After complaining about all the FS and WTB ads on the rst I decided to start my own web site, and include a for sale, and wanted to buy page. You can now as of 4/23 enjoy the addition, and get a free for sale or wanted to buy ad at: www.wolfpacktriathlon.com/forsale.html Please, triathlon, duathlon or related gear only. The site and the pages are brand new, watch for new and exciting updates daily. No matter what you do tri hard.
Hi, I’m 17 and Im doing the Wildflower in a week. I just got sick a day ago, it has something to do with my stomach and throat/breathing(maybe flu?). It is gonna be my first triathlon and now I’m kind of mad, you know to get sick a week before. I was wondering if it would be ok to just keep training despite the sickness? Or should I just rest and if so how much would that hurt my performace(not training)? Thank you very much Matt
Does anyone use the Fuelbelt that has become the rage in IM racing. I would appreciate any input from users….both positive and negative of course. thanks Brian
Does anyone use the Fuelbelt that has become the rage in IM racing. I would appreciate any input from users….both positive and negative of course.
I like the idea of them, although in practice I can’t seem to find one ( I have 3 different brands ) that stays put. They all seem to work their way around to the way they want to be, which is not always the most comfortable for me. And making them tighter just doesn’t seem to work. I use them regardless for 1/2IM and marathons, they make the journey so much more pleasent… Al Kormesser
Does anyone use the Fuelbelt that has become the rage in IM racing. I would appreciate any input from users….both positive and negative of course. thanks Brian
I’ve one and I use it for my long runs (2 hours+) building up to the London marathon. It’s great BUT one of the bottle pockets has stated to come off after what might only amount to ten runs. So it’s a great idea that needs a bit more stitching! Regards, Steve
I have used a large number of different styles of belts and can say that the Fuel Belt is easily the most comfortable. It does not move around your waist or bounce up and down. It’s true that you actually forget it’s even there. The down side or (hard to get used to) is the small bottles and the very small opening on the bottle tops. I’ve ripped the top off numerous times trying to get a bigger flow of water. I think we are all used to standard size cycling bottles and tops and the smaller flow is less satisfying. By the way, the total volume of the four small bottles equals (1) normal size cycling water bottle. Larry
I think the fuel belt is a great way to rehydrate. I have been using it on long runs without any major problems. The only complaint I have is that gels do not flow easily from the fuel belt bottle. I usually have to unscrew the cap off to get to my gel because the gel will not come out with squeezing the fuel belt bottle. Zach
I love my FuelBelt. Great for those long solo runs. No bounce at all. You’re right, the bottle caps are not made for gels. Ultima makes a great gel bottle and pouch that fits perfectly in the back of my fuel belt. Ken – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I think the fuel belt is a great way to rehydrate. I have been using it on long runs without any major problems. The only complaint I have is that gels do not flow easily from the fuel belt bottle. I usually have to unscrew the cap off to get to my gel because the gel will not come out with squeezing the fuel belt bottle. Zach
Does anyone use the Fuelbelt that has become the rage in IM racing. I would appreciate any input from users….both positive and negative of course. thanks Brian
Hi Everyone! Wow, so many great comments on the Fuel Belt (manufactured by Perfekta). As the person responsible for bringing Fuel Belts to most of you, I would like to address many of the questions/concerns that most of you have brought up. It’s true that we are pretty much conditioned to expect our bottles to have bigger spouts, however, the uniqueness of the bottles on the Fuel Belt allows for only a few select caps to be used. We are working hard to custom manufacture a new cap that will be more similar to your traditional water bottle caps as well as new versions of the original belt. We just received a Fuel Belt that has EIGHT bottles, holding over 40 ounces! As with any good company willing to improve it’s products, it is very important that we listen to our hard working customers (you, the athletes:)). All of your comments are well taken. To that point, I would like to extend the following: For those of you having problems with the caps coming off, please e-mail me and I will get you new caps ASAP. At the very least, we want you to continue to stay hydrated. If anyone would like more information on our products, please drop me an e-mail with your questions, or visit our website for more information at: www.fuelbelt.com — Vinu Malik President, Fuel Belt p: 617.868.9506 (direct) p: 888.666.BELT (2358) f: 617.661.7808 w: www.fuelbelt.com Fuel Belt: Proven at Ironman races around the world…
Try mixing a little water in with the gel (about 5 parts gel to 1 part water). Makes it flow much easier. Mark I think the fuel belt is a great way to rehydrate. I have been using it on long runs without any major problems. The only complaint I have is that gels do not flow easily from the fuel belt bottle. I usually have to unscrew the cap off to get to my gel because the gel will not come out with squeezing the fuel belt bottle. Zach _ – o ’ – __o – </_ ` ‘ – < – __/ /o_ – (()) (()) - /
Yes I am the original complainer…I decided due to rain that I would not show up for the 1998 Danskin Triathlon in Seattle. There are over 2,000 participants. The waves are elites first, then teams, then age groups, and age groups are divided by alphabet. I just turned 40 and am a "W". The way they had wave starts, the race started at 7:30am and I was scheduled to depart at 9:20. I finish in the top 1/3 of the participants however the elites will have finished almost an hour before my start. The second triathlon is put on by envirosports which is coed buy purely alphabetical. I complained also to them, they said if I reminded them the day before, they would let the last of the alphabet go first. My favorite triathlon this year was men starting 10 minutes before women. I didn’t have to swim over any men and I enjoyed passing men on the bike. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I believe that the original poster was lamenting the fact that he/she had a last name that started with a letter in the latter half of the At the two Ironman races I am most familier with – IMH and IMC – the numbering after the first 100 – 200(for the pros and VIP’s) is alphabetical and they alternate years, from A to Z one year and from Z to A the next year. Consequently if your last name begins with W, you may have your bike racked in the back of the transition zone one year, but the next year you may be at the front. As for the wave starts based on last names, in 15 years of triathlon racing this is the first I have ever heard of this. When waves are required, they are usually by age-group(s). Steve Fleck
The organisers of the ‘Super Sprint’ series (about 6 races over the season in Melbourne) say (and I seem to recall, remembering we’re in the winter over here) that they vary the starting order. Pros always go first, and teams and novices are always at the back of the field, but we age groupers can expect early and later wave starts over the whole series. It doesn’t make much difference for on-off entries, but at least it shows the organisers have thought about the issue. Liz
Charlie, Thank you for the clarification. I did not see the original post. Again, in 15 years of triathlon competition, in Canada and some U.S. States, I have never heard of wave starts based on anything other than age-groups. As for the time trial-starts, this is a race format that I have only encounterd once in my 15 years of triathlon racing. I have vague recollections of using a TT/individual start in my first triathlon ever in 1982. It’s not surprising that this format was used as it was a cross-country ski club who put the race on, as I recall. As you know individual starts are standard fare in competitive xc-skiing. However, since that time every race that I have done has been mass start or wave start. It is interesting to hear that "most" races in the South East are conducted in the TT/individual start format. Why is that? Steve Fleck – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – : As for the wave starts based on last names, in 15 years of triathlon : racing this is the first I have ever heard of this. When waves are required, : they are usually by age-group(s). Steve, Sal was referring to Heart O’ Dixie and Sunfish which, like most of our races in the Southeast US, use time trial starts. In the case of heart o Dixie and Sunfish, the athletes are sent off in order of age with a sub order of estimated swim times. So at 17, Sal was fourth in the water at heart o’Dixie. That’s nice, but he got passed by lots of folks, which was the subject of his lament. I heard the same lament from my daughter who was 2nd into the water in the water (but first female out!). -Charlie
I participated in the Danskin Seattle event, and I did not notice that we were started by last name within our age-groups although there were 3 or 4 waves of each age-group. I am glad they separated us out a little more because I would have hated to hit the water with 424 other women(which is how many finished in my age-group) for a 1/2 mile swim. I really enjoyed the Danskin event and plan to do it again next year. Kim
You don’t khnow how lucky you are!!! I’m 17… one of the very few young ‘uns in every race… Both races that I have done put waves in order of AGE!!! I really don’t like being the fourth one into the water… Its bad enough that there is noone to follow for the swim and I get lost. The worst part is that the entire race I get passed up by EVERYBODY (lots of people) that will eventually finnish ahead of me, instead of them being infront of me to begin with. It really messes with your mind when somone passes you and their number is like 250… I think, "Gee, that guy is about 20 minutes ahead of me." –Salvador Santolucito III – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I want to register my complaint over the use of alphabetical order in triathlon wave starts. Both envirosports and danskin are using alphabet for wave starts. I can’t help it that my last name starts with "W" I decided not to participate in the Danskin in Seattle yesterday because Danskin starts waves based on age group and then alphabet. I would have started 1 hours and 50 minutes after the starters. Since it was raining and I was supposed to get there between 6:00 and 7:00am to get marked and get a good space, I couldn’t see waiting up to 3 hours and 20 minutes to start. It is bad enough that we had to sit in the back of the room through school, can’t we get some relief as adults. Just needed to vent
I want to register my complaint over the use of alphabetical order in triathlon wave starts. Both envirosports and danskin are using alphabet for wave starts. I can’t help it that my last name starts with "W" I decided not to participate in the Danskin in Seattle yesterday because Danskin starts waves based on age group and then alphabet. I would have started 1 hours and 50 minutes after the starters. Since it was raining and I was supposed to get there between 6:00 and 7:00am to get marked and get a good space, I couldn’t see waiting up to 3 hours and 20 minutes to start. It is bad enough that we had to sit in the back of the room through school, can’t we get some relief as adults. Just needed to vent
I believe that the original poster was lamenting the fact that he/she had a last name that started with a letter in the latter half of the At the two Ironman races I am most familier with – IMH and IMC – the numbering after the first 100 – 200(for the pros and VIP’s) is alphabetical and they alternate years, from A to Z one year and from Z to A the next year. Consequently if your last name begins with W, you may have your bike racked in the back of the transition zone one year, but the next year you may be at the front. As for the wave starts based on last names, in 15 years of triathlon racing this is the first I have ever heard of this. When waves are required, they are usually by age-group(s). Steve Fleck
: As for the wave starts based on last names, in 15 years of triathlon : racing this is the first I have ever heard of this. When waves are required, : they are usually by age-group(s). Steve, Sal was referring to Heart O’ Dixie and Sunfish which, like most of our races in the Southeast US, use time trial starts. In the case of heart o Dixie and Sunfish, the athletes are sent off in order of age with a sub order of estimated swim times. So at 17, Sal was fourth in the water at heart o’Dixie. That’s nice, but he got passed by lots of folks, which was the subject of his lament. I heard the same lament from my daughter who was 2nd into the water in the water (but first female out!). -Charlie
Let’s talk gender.
OK Last coed triathlon I was in had the men 50-54 leaving before the women 30-34. Not to denigrate all the buff older guys out there, but this was ridiculous. This was a fairly competitive int’l distance race with large waves of women 30-34 and 35-39.
First, let me say that I agree with the problem you presented. For some reason I don’t see the same problems in running, open water swimming, or cycling events.
Well… I have seen a _similar_ problem. However, comparing a triathlon to those events is not valid. In most running events, a fast runner can end up caught in the "mob". I see this in many events. OTOH, wave starts in some races (ie Peachtree 10K; 45,000 participants) provide the correct advantage for *all* faster runners — men and women. However, the comparison is still not valid as the triathlon includes three sports in which participants are not equally strong. In cycling, there is no comparison. Everyone rides in the pack unless on a breakaway (or a TT). There is no overtaking slower waves. I have no idea about open water swimming. Time trial starts for triathlons only partially address the problem. Triathlets who are fast runners or bikers, but slow swimmers, will find themselves facing the same problem you described. At first I thought of the following possible solution for wave starts: like a TT start, have participants estimate their finish times. Create waves based on these times (wave 1 under 1:30:00, wave 2 1:30:00 – 1:45:00, etc.). Note that the waves should have equal numbers of athletes to prevent overcrowding and drafting. Pros and age groupers would be seeded together. However, that may not be the answer. Because our sport has three parts, there still is the possibility that stong cyclists/weak swimmers will face a lot of traffic during the bike. Hmmmmm…. I can see no clear answer. However, I believe that coed waves are one step in the right direction. David W. / maybe I’m at the bottom of the results because of my name reply to wuth – family – atlanta (remove spaces) at att dot net
David, I work in marketing, where there’s a general rule that anything that someone fills out in a survey is not the truth. I’ve been in races that use your suggestion of asking people for their starting time, and the result is just as messy as a "normal" wave start. I like the idea in concept, but I don’t think it normally works in practice. As you point out, there doesn’t seem to be a clear answer. Some of the better races that I’ve been in were seemingly random for placement. Lots of times, day-of registrants get dumped in one wave. This seems to work as well as, if not better than, most other methods. Stephan – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – … At first I thought of the following possible solution for wave starts: like a TT start, have participants estimate their finish times. Create waves based on these times (wave 1 under 1:30:00, wave 2 1:30:00 – 1:45:00, etc.). Note that the waves should have equal numbers of athletes to prevent overcrowding and drafting. Pros and age groupers would be seeded together. Hmmmmm…. I can see no clear answer. However, I believe that coed waves are one step in the right direction. …
Let’s talk gender. Last coed triathlon I was in had the men 50-54 leaving before the women 30-34. Not to denigrate all the buff older guys out there, but this was ridiculous. This was a fairly competitve int’l distance race with large waves of women 30-34 and 35-39. One reason I stopped doing much coed tri stuff is the nuisance value of things like this. My wave is so far in the back that I feel like a second class citizen….OK, pay your $75 or whatever, but we don’t really care about you…just the faster folks up front. I still really like Danskin and other events. For some reason I don’t see the same problems in running, open water swimming, or cycling events. S You really lost me there…what is it exactly that you are upset about? 1) The AGE of the competitors in earlier waves? 2) The GENDER of the competitors in earlier waves? 3) The Race Director somehow NOT CARING about you…because you were in a later wave? 4 The SPEED of the competitors in earlier waves? 5) All of the above? 6) None of the above? 7) OTHER? I dont think there is one universal…most fair method of seeding/starting a triathlon. There are too many variables which can include: Course variables, weather variables, wide ranges in competitor ages and abilities, etc. Why not just realize that on that particular day….for that particular race…you were in THAT wave..whatever it was. Then go out and enjoy your day…work hard…or take it easy…any way you please. As sports go, it seems that triathlons are relatively <fair due to the age grouping and "individual effort" nature of the sport (swift kick to Les McD’s seated, weight-bearing anatomical portion). Based on your brief introduction, and references to the Danskin series later in your post….I am inclined to assume it is the GENDER of the competitors ahead of you that was the nuisance. If it had been the 50-54 women in that wave…would you have felt differently? Please enlighten… Respectfully baffled, gregnelson (who feels like a third class citizen because he not only starts in a later wave…but finishes there as well)
Alright, I had to put my $.02 in on this one, cuz it bugs me too. All of the coed races I have done have started the women’s waves after ALL of the men’s waves. I always thought it would work better if they did men’s 20-24, then women’s 20-24, then men’s 25-29, etc. But maybe I’m a bit partial here, cuz I’m in the women’s 20-24, and I’m a pretty strong swimmer, and I would like to be able to really get out and swim, instead of crawling over all of the guys in front of me. So to me it is a gender issue, but I wouldn’t like it if the put all the women if front either, cuz then it would not be fair to the guys who are stong swimmers. My thoughts, =) Sara Gilliland
Let’s talk gender. Last coed triathlon I was in had the men 50-54 leaving before the women 30-34. Not to denigrate all the buff older guys out there, but this was ridiculous. This was a fairly competitve int’l distance race with large waves of women 30-34 and 35-39. One reason I stopped doing much coed tri stuff is the nuisance value of things like this. My wave is so far in the back that I feel like a second class citizen….OK, pay your $75 or whatever, but we don’t really care about you…just the faster folks up front. I still really like Danskin and other events. For some reason I don’t see the same problems in running, open water swimming, or cycling events. S You really lost me there…what is it exactly that you are upset about? 1) The AGE of the competitors in earlier waves? 2) The GENDER of the competitors in earlier waves?
Some ones got to be in the last wave!!! (lol) B.Oliver
Let’s talk gender. Last coed triathlon I was in had the men 50-54 leaving before the women 30-34. Not to denigrate all the buff older guys out there, but this was ridiculous. This was a fairly competitive int’l distance race with large waves of women 30-34 and 35-39. One reason I stopped doing much coed tri stuff is the nuisance value of things like this. My wave is so far in the back that I feel like a second class citizen…OK, pay your $75 or whatever, but we don’t really care about you….just the faster folks up front. I still really like Danskin and other events. For some reason I don’t see the same problems in running, open water swimming, or cycling events. S – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I want to register my complaint over the use of alphabetical order in triathlon wave starts. Both envirosports and danskin are using alphabet for wave starts. I can’t help it that my last name starts with "W" I decided not to participate in the Danskin in Seattle yesterday because Danskin starts waves based on age group and then alphabet. I would have started 1 hours and 50 minutes after the starters. Since it was raining and I was supposed to get there between 6:00 and 7:00am to get marked and get a good space, I couldn’t see waiting up to 3 hours and 20 minutes to start. It is bad enough that we had to sit in the back of the room through school, can’t we get some relief as adults. Just needed to vent
What a fabulous weekend !!! The best Wildflower ever ! I’m in major grief that I was unable to connect with all of you RST-ers ! At 4:00 on Saturday I was in the lonnnnnnnnng women’s 30+ registration line, which went on forever. Upon finalizing my packet, the Long Course Awards and IQ slots were beginning. So exciting ! Anyone here get one?? Combat swimming is not my forte so was quite disappointed in my swim. Where did that headwind, on the fastest part of the 40k bike course, come from??? Arrgh ! That run was challenging as always ! I got very lucky Sunday and placed 2nd in my division. Let’s hear your stories……. Lynne
Goodness. Second in your age group!! Congratulations!! This was my second triathlon ever, and boy was it a rude awakening!!!! Here are just a few of the things that I learned this weekend: 1. I didn’t train enough hills. 2. I need a better bike. (I’m currently riding a steel Specialized Allez from about 1990 with no racing wheels that felt at least 50 lbs heavy up some of those hills.) 3. For every jerk in triathlons (screaming at people to get out of their way in a very demanding tone), there is another super nice person willing to give up their race to help another triathlete in trouble. For example, I saw lot of people on the run course helping each other with cramps, giving each other advice, and cheering each other on to keep running. 4. Swimming is my strong discipline (I was first out of the water in my age group and about 25th at the end of the bike!) and I don’t need to focus more on the biking. O man, those hills. 5. Expos are really fun, and SUCK you in to buying lots of equipment that you never knew you REALLY needed. 6. Never wear a new shirt on race day, as I have major chafing on the insides of my arms from my speedo mesh shirt. 7. I lifted my head straight up too much on the swim, as I have major chafing on my neck from the wetsuit/cap combination. 8. As an age group woman, I will always have to deal with swimming around and sometimes over (oops!) older men that cannot swim. 9. No matter how fast I thought I had my transitions down to, there’s always someone doing less, wearing less and getting in and out faster than me. 10. Mental toughness is very, very, very important. 11. Everyone who finished that race has something to be very proud of. 12. Expect the worst and the best of weather, and from what I know, that’s probably some of the worst we’ll get here in California. (Let’s see — Overcast chills, blistering sun, windy and chilly, DOWNPOURING rain (of course some of you were done by the time it really rained), and downright pleasant mild sun.) 13. I have a lot to learn about the sport 14. Volunteers make a huge difference, and really help you get through some tough times. One of the Cal Poly guys saw me hurting and decided to run with me for a little while and cheer me up. It worked, as I somehow forgot about the pain when he was there. 15. No matter how bad off you think you are, there’s always someone worse than you. Let’s see…. How about the poor girl who crashed hard at the bottom of our first big hill? Anyone know how she is? I heard she had to get airlifted. How about the several people I saw running in with their bikes? How about the collegiate girl I passed on a mountain bike who had BAD road rash all over her side and back? How about the person I passed on the run who I think was trying to run, but was actually just sort of bobbing up and down…. a lot slower than she could have walked? There are many more…. 16. Mechanical problems can really throw off your race — even the slightest thing like a chain coming off. Even though you only lose 30 seconds or so, it can cause enormous difference in your disposition. 17. Camping and triathlons don’t necessarily go together — although I LOVE both of them. You need SO much stuff for tri’s, and so much stuff for camping that it seemed impossible that i fit it all in my car. I would definitely consider bringing a motor home next time. (Sleeping on the ground doesn’t do wonders for morning of the race comfort, either.) There’s lots more things I learned but those are just some. Despite all the pain and discomfort I felt during the race, I somehow still managed to have fun and enjoy the atmosphere. I am hooked on the sport. That’s all!! Courtney Thomas
Lynne, Congratulations on your result! I was fortunate enough to have my best result at Wildflower, won the 35-39 age group and snagged an Ironman slot! I did not what place I was in during the race until the long hill at mile ten. I ran scared from that point on and finished in 4:35. I was jubliant afterwards, but I am still having trouble walking properly. Sean Ford
Congrats to both of you! I hope you have a great race in Hawaii! Lynne, Congratulations on your result! I was fortunate enough to have my best result at Wildflower, won the 35-39 age group and snagged an Ironman slot! I did not what place I was in during the race until the long hill at mile ten. I ran scared from that point on and finished in 4:35. I was jubliant afterwards, but I am still having trouble walking properly. Sean Ford
!!!!!
Here it is a week after Wildflower and I am finally sitting down at the ‘puter and reading all of the posts. First of all, congrats to Tri Baby on the IMH lottery pick. I will now have to reserve a space at my neighbors with the satelite and try to pick up some local Kona news in October. Is tri-crew extraordinaire "Skippy" going with you? How about all the bay area RST’ers getting together and throwing a send off party for you? We can all convoy to the airport and really make a scene. Just a thought. Secondly, I want to thank Tim for being there for me on the run. I might still be out there if it weren’t for him pushing me to keep going. "By the way people, there is no need to check the results for the olympic race for me. "I" know i bombed." Lets ride some hills Tim! I enjoyed meeting the few people I did. Joe, Chaz, Randy, Tim, Tricia, Skippy and the others whose names escape me. Wildflower was great as an event, not just a race. I plan on doing the long course next year, so anybody who can is more than welcome to send me encouragement. Next race, San Jose. See ya’ll there.
Hey Garlicdude I think a big send-off is a great idea… better yet, let’s have a big send-off and a congratulations/welcome back bash at the airport. If nothing else, we can use the trip to the "city" as a long training ride (for those of us still racing in October)!!! How ’bout it Tricia? I bet I could even swing some local news coverage. We could give Bay Area Triathlon a real kick in the pants. I’ll even bake the cookies. By the way, a reciprocating ditto on theWildflower run, Butch. It was fun pulling together with someone. It sure made that long uphill go by faster… How about the first weekend in June for that ride? Any other Bay Area RSTer’s game for jaunt up to Lick Observatory (Mt. Hamilton)? And…Congratulations, Tricia, Carlos, and all the rest who are headed for the big show. Tim "Victory is having the courage to tri"
Are they also available for MTBs?
$1100 Whats the price on them?
Rick Denney Take what you want and leave the rest.
Where could someone take a peek at the Kevlar Heylights. I’m too poor to afford any at the moment, but I enjoy dreaming… Nathaniel
I’ll try to dredge up picture and put it on our site. I’ll let you know when it’s up. Sincerely, Gerard Vroomen, Cervelo Cycles website: http://www.cervelo.com
snip I pay around $300 for the pairs last year, including the freewheel hubs. I used them mostly for time trials. They’re flying thru. the wind. Kwan <snip $300 for the pair? Where did you get these from? Rocket Robb
I’ve got a pair of these 4 spokes (similar to the Corima, but not finished as nice). Super light with removable thread-in hubs and 8 speed 12-21 freewheel, size 650c. I’ll let them go for $250+shipping for the pair. They’ve got about 8 races on them from last season. Cheers, Andrew — Andrew Peabody Miami
I read the article on Nimbles in Triathlete the other day and was really put off by the format, it was like reading and advertisement (IMHO). I kept looking to the top of the article for the "special advertisement" sig. Rocket Robb
Whats the price on them?
Try not to spoil the party here… From their ad, it’s not that light for a tri spoke wheels. I’ve seen lighter, more inexpensive. I owned a set of Russian make carbon wheels called Troika, 3 spoke front, 4 spoke rear. I never come across ANYTHING lighter, carbon or non-carbon. Dunno the exact numbers, but even lighter than Gel280!! I pay around $300 for the pairs last year, including the freewheel hubs. I used them mostly for time trials. They’re flying thru. the wind. Kwan – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – First of all, Hi… Now, has anybody heard anything, read about or even experienced, (other than paid endorsements) anything about these new wheels that I just saw for the first time in the lastest issue of Tri-Mag. After getting their price quote I understand why they don’t advertise it…my initial reaction is that they should come equiped with wings. —
I read the article on Nimbles in Triathlete the other day and was really put off by the format, it was like reading and advertisement (IMHO). I kept looking to the top of the article for the "special advertisement" sig. Rocket Robb
I guess you can’t really blame Nimble for that, but it appears that Triathlete mag has had a couple of advertorials lately. Sincerely, Gerard Vroomen, Cervelo Cycles website: http://www.cervelo.com
Try not to spoil the party here… From their ad, it’s not that light for a tri spoke wheels. I’ve seen lighter, more inexpensive. I owned a set of Russian make carbon wheels called Troika, 3 spoke front, 4 spoke rear. I never come across ANYTHING lighter, carbon or non-carbon. Dunno the exact numbers, but even lighter than Gel280!! I pay around $300 for the pairs last year, including the freewheel hubs.
Well, if we are going for the ultimate in lightness, the new Kevlar Heylights come close. less than 1000 grams for the pair (this is NOT a typo). 50mm deep-V rims, 20 Kevlar spokes, Kevlar hub, etc. Did I mention they are over US$ 3000? Gerard Vroomen, Cervelo Cycles website: http://www.cervelo.com
snip
I pay around $300 for the pairs last year, including the freewheel hubs. I used them mostly for time trials. They’re flying thru. the wind. Kwan <snip $300 for the pair? Where did you get these from? Rocket Robb
Well, if we are going for the ultimate in lightness, the new Kevlar Heylights come close. less than 1000 grams for the pair (this is NOT a typo). 50mm deep-V rims, 20 Kevlar spokes, Kevlar hub, etc. Did I mention they are over US$ 3000? Gerard Vroomen, Cervelo Cycles website: http://www.cervelo.com
$3000.00 ??? WTT —- NICE pair of parents for—RICH, not so nice parents:-( D.J. (IRONKID) OK!! I was wrong. Make that — REALLY RICH, not so nice parents:-(
Whats the price on them?
If you need to ask, you can’t afford them.
Did I mention they are over US$ 3000?
Where could someone take a peek at the Kevlar Heylights. I’m too poor to afford any at the moment, but I enjoy dreaming… Nathaniel – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Try not to spoil the party here… From their ad, it’s not that light for a tri spoke wheels. I’ve seen lighter, more inexpensive. I owned a set of Russian make carbon wheels called Troika, 3 spoke front, 4 spoke rear. I never come across ANYTHING lighter, carbon or non-carbon. Dunno the exact numbers, but even lighter than Gel280!! I pay around $300 for the pairs last year, including the freewheel hubs. Well, if we are going for the ultimate in lightness, the new Kevlar Heylights come close. less than 1000 grams for the pair (this is NOT a typo). 50mm deep-V rims, 20 Kevlar spokes, Kevlar hub, etc. Did I mention they are over US$ 3000? Gerard Vroomen, Cervelo Cycles website: http://www.cervelo.com
First of all, Hi… Now, has anybody heard anything, read about or even experienced, (other than paid endorsements) anything about these new wheels that I just saw for the first time in the lastest issue of Tri-Mag. After getting their price quote I understand why they don’t advertise it…my initial reaction is that they should come equiped with wings. —
First of all, Hi… Now, has anybody heard anything, read about or even experienced, (other than paid endorsements) anything about these new wheels that I just saw for the first time in the lastest issue of Tri-Mag.
a week ago I saw the first set of Nimbles on a bike (I think they only started shipping a couple of months ago). The owner loved them, said they felt just that, nimble. They are light for a carbon wheel. I didn’t ride with them, so I can only comment on the look, which I have to say is even nicer "live" than on paper. Sincerely, Gerard Vroomen, Cervelo Cycles website: http://www.cervelo.com
made…..and VERY light…. cheers Sam – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – First of all, Hi… Now, has anybody heard anything, read about or even experienced, (other than paid endorsements) anything about these new wheels that I just saw for the first time in the lastest issue of Tri-Mag. After getting their price quote I understand why they don’t advertise it…my initial reaction is that they should come equiped with wings. —
Syntance. (not the last time you’re going to hear that answer) — Chuck Department of Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham http://www.uab.edu/uabbio/amsler.htm
Syntance. (not the last time you’re going to hear that answer)
Agreed. Relatively light, durable, a little more $ than Profile, but more than make up for price difference in quality. Just my $.02. 
Jeff Larson University of Wisconsin Triathlon Club
Syntace. Good product. Excellent service. Committed. Brian Sullivan
Syntance. (not the last time you’re going to hear that answer) — Chuck Department of Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham http://www.uab.edu/uabbio/amsler.htm
NOT PROFILE !!!
DO NOT BUY PROFILE!! Those pads are maddening because they never stay locked in place. They shift around even after bending an allen wrench tightening them!!
Syntace – Their behind-the-handlebar-mounted design gives excellent stability on windy days or on technical courses. They do cost more, but when you’re out on a windy day and you can’t get down into your aerobars you’ll wonder why you didn’t pay the extra money. I’ve had plenty of friends who switched and they say it feels like night and day. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’m going to be buying aerobars for my bike soon. I’ve decided to run this by you guys and see what you think. What are good aerobars??? I’m looking for aerobars that are dependable, durable, tested, tried and true that perform well at the task. They don’t have to be fancy-shmancy, but they do have to perform well. Thanks in Advance, Salvador Santolcuito III
Syntace
I’ve had an old Profile, then Scott RCO, then 2 different newer Profiles, and now finally the best, Syntace Streamliner. $ 100.00 at Bicycle Sports. Pads are more comfortable than everyone elses. Medium size fit me perfect. (5′10") Good Luck. dherrema
Just try the Bio arm 3t. It is fully adaptable. You may have to adjust its length sawing it off a bit. That is the way all of my friends and I did, to get the customized aero bars. A friend of mine could never get one which really matched his needs and position. He has tried and adopted the Bio arms. Olivier – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’m going to be buying aerobars for my bike soon. I’ve decided to run this by you guys and see what you think. What are good aerobars??? I’m looking for aerobars that are dependable, durable, tested, tried and true that perform well at the task. They don’t have to be fancy-shmancy, but they do have to perform well. Thanks in Advance, Salvador Santolcuito III
I’m going to be buying aerobars for my bike soon. I’ve decided to run this by you guys and see what you think. What are good aerobars??? I’m looking for aerobars that are dependable, durable, tested, tried and true that perform well at the task. They don’t have to be fancy-shmancy, but they do have to perform well. Thanks in Advance, Salvador Santolcuito III
Does anyonr know where I can get hold of or download plans for a billiard table? Clayton Fopp Australia
;Does anyonr know where I can get hold of or download plans for a ;billiard table? ;Clayton Fopp ;Australia Just remember if you get one from the US that it will not be the same as a real one[ UK type ],the tables here are really pool tables which are smaller and have bigger pockets which makes every thing much easier. Hey perhaps thats what you want. mjh
;Does anyonr know where I can get hold of or download plans for a ;billiard table? ;Clayton Fopp ;Australia Just remember if you get one from the US that it will not be the same as a real one[ UK type ],the tables here are really pool tables which are smaller and have bigger pockets which makes every thing much easier. Hey perhaps thats what you want. mjh
The man didn’t ask about a pool table. He asked about a billiard table, which has no pockets, large or small. Rick Marinelli
;Does anyonr know where I can get hold of or download plans for a ;billiard table? ;Clayton Fopp ;Australia Well after many e mails to various members of the group ,i think I have finally convinced those who think that billiard tables have no pockets ,otherwise . A good starting point is the web site which at the onset states that billiard tables have six pockets . http"//www.bca-pool.com/history/hist.htm just dont let the word pool fool you. after all isnt pool called pocket billiards ?
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – ;Does anyonr know where I can get hold of or download plans for a ;billiard table? ;Clayton Fopp ;Australia Just remember if you get one from the US that it will not be the same as a real one[ UK type ],the tables here are really pool tables which are smaller and have bigger pockets which makes every thing much easier. Hey perhaps thats what you want. mjh The man didn’t ask about a pool table. He asked about a billiard table, which has no pockets, large or small.
Don’t know about any plans for a billiard/pool table, but the UK does not have a monopoly on big tables with little pockets. The smaller pockets are typically used for snooker, and can indeed be found here in the U.S. I’ve seen quality billiard/pool tables ranging in length from 6 feet to 12 feet, with the longer tables for snooker. If you’ve ever played snooker, it’s a rather difficult game as compared to the familiar 8-ball played on a 6-8 foot table. And, billiard table to indeed have pockets, although carom tables (or carom billiards) do not. If building a table, you’ll probably get the most enjoyment out of an 8-footer. Plus, most good pool halls in the U.S. use 8-footers (although there is one here in Cincy that has 12-foot snooker tables), so why not get good on an 8-footer then go out and win some $$$ to pay for new tools. — Marty Miller Proprietor of The Triathlete’s Web http://w3.one.net/~triweb
Depending on where you live the terms billiard, pool, pocket, and snooker will mean different things. For most Americans the following paragraphs will apply. The term billiard was used in the early days of the sport to describe most any table (one with pockets or without). But today it usually follows the description below (exceptions may apply). There are 3 different table styles. They are 1) Pocket Billiard table(pool), 2) Snooker table, and 3) Billiard table (no pockets, sometimes called a carom billiards table) A Pocket billiard table has 6 pockets and for regualtion purposes the length must be exactly twice its width. There are very specific measurements for the pocket dimensions (See Billard Congress of America rulebook). The ball diameter is 2 1/4" (or for rec.ww – 9/4"). The height of the table surface is another important mesaurement (Again See BCA rulebook). This is the table most Americans have played on and can range from 3×6, 3.5×7, 4×8, pro 4×8, 4.5×9 and 5×10. Please observe that the mesaurements for table size do not correspond to the inside rail to rail dimension but to a more general overall size. Example: a 4.5′x9′ table will actually meaure 48"x96" from inside rail to rail. The outside measurement will be closer to 4.5′x9′. A snooker table once again its length is twice its width. I have seen tables range in size from 4.5×9 to 5×10 and the English regulation size of 6×12′. The balls are usually of smaller diameter than "pool" tables and are 2 1/8". Therefore the pockets are smaller and have a different cushion profile (A more rounded entrance to the pocket). The height is sometimes taller that a pocket billiard table and the cloth used is different. (It has a nap to it) A billiard table generally denotes a table that is 5×10′ in size with no pockets, just 4 rails. There are many different "billiard" games that can be played on a "billiard" table, just as there are many games played on a "pool" table. One game is called 3 cushion billards which uses balls that are signifigantly larger and heavier than the 2 1/4" pool table balls. Sorry for the length of this post but it seemed necessary. If one is interested in making a table, how about building a multi purpose table. The idea would be to build a 5×10′ table with 4×4 timbers for the supports and a 3 piece slate with pocket drops cut out in the slate. Then build different rails that bolt thru the slate. One set of rails would be for billiards, one set for pool, and another set for Snooker. This would be the ultimate setup IMHO. Brunswick used to manufacture such a table. It was 5×10 and you could buy billiard, pocket billiard, or snooker rails for it. When bolting on the carom rails the 90 degree corners would cover the pocket drops. There are also companies that sell pocket inserts. These are short pieces of rail that are inserted into the pocket openings so that a 6 pocket table can now be used as a carom table with no pockets. One note: Carom billiards might be a better term to use in the place of just "billiard". There are several www sites that might help you plan such a table. Try the BCA (Billiard Congress of America) site at www.bca-pool.com/hist.htm for Michael Shamos’ quick history of the sport. And try http://www.bca-pool.com/rules/bca_spec.htm for BCA equipment specs. I havent found plans for a table on the www. If you cant find exact plans, try looking at some of the heavier duty tables such as Brunswick Gold Crown III or the Connelly pro table made form oak. These will give you good ideas on how to support the slate and form the legs. After writing all of this I would rather buy a high quality table than make my own. But it would definitely be a fun project. For slate and pocket sources check out billiard magazines such as Pool&Billiard or Billiards Digest (USA Printed Mags) Jeff Kavanaugh
Years ago there was a published plan for a pool table in Popular Mechanics magazine. (Might be mechanix illustrated…changed the name for a brief period) Anyway, I’ve seen "Reader Project" photos in the editorials, and they looked quite nice. Basically it consisted of 4 massive looking hollow columns, a thick, supportive top, a slate (or concrete…an option) top, then felt…the rest was basically simple decorative woodworking. It looked very doable, by the home woodworker. – Chuck Knight
I am considering entering the Columbia, MD triathlon on May 22. Anyone done the race in the past have any comments? Please reply ASAP, as the entry fee has to be in the mail on Monday! Thanks, kbb — Kim B. Blair, Ph.D. Senior Staff Scientist
| I am considering entering the Columbia, MD triathlon on May 22. | Anyone done the race in the past have any comments? Please | reply ASAP, as the entry fee has to be in the mail on Monday! | Ahhh….. You better call to make sure that you can still get in. In years past it has filled up pretty quick. This is my first year doing it, but I live in the area and ride the bike course often. I consider the bike part faily hilly. -Dennis — Fields Divided Dennis Flanigan, Jr. | Goddard Space Flight Center Applied Research Corp. | TRMM Office, Code 910.1