Sunday, May 29, 2011

Mike's third triathlon!

We set off at about 5:15a.m. yesterday to get to Crystal River for the first in their annual series of triathlons this year. Mike did one at Crystal River last year and really enjoyed it. Each year they host three triathons - all on Holiday weekends - Memorial Day, July 4th and Labor Day. The distances are: 0.25m swim, 15m bike and 3m run. The swim is in the Gulf of Mexico and they have a 350 athlete maximum which keeps the numbers fairly manageable.

Since the bike distance is longer than for a lot of tris, there are some really serious bikers at this event. Mike is still riding a mountain bike until he decides whether or not he wants to upgrade - it's a significant investment but does give you a massive edge for events like this. There were some very expensive bikes there...


Here's Mike in the transision area with his mountain bike trying not to feel intimidated...:)


Maddy was very proud of her Daddy...


Looking good Mikey boy!


The swim looks very intimidating from the beach. They have to swim all the way around those orange and yellow buoys in the distance...


Mike managed to lose his wedding ring during the swim :(. This is the third ring that he's lost in the Gulf of Mexico now. At what point do you think - you know what, I'm going to take my ring off today since I'm going to the beach, Mike?:) Anyway, at least he had a smile for us when he came out of the water...


After a tricky transition he took off on his bike...


It's a really great venue and well-organized for both athletes and spectators. While Mike was out on the bike, Maddy and I spent some time on the beach hanging out and and waiting on the road to cheer him in...


We were happy to see that he was still smiling as he went out for the run (by now it was over 80 degrees and we were uncomfortable just sitting still and watching)...


And he's back and all done!


Congratulations Mike - we are so proud of you!!!