As promised, it was 100 in Waukegan for the Harbor Lights Triathlon. I really feel for those that were up in Racine doing the 1/2IM. I hope that everyone was safe.
Race Notes: Must have been an oversight by Capri, but there were no directions or instructions in the packets. Fortunately I’ve done this race a few times, but they can do better than that. I love that my HRM will pick up other people’s signals. Pre-race the guy in the porta-pot next to mine was taking a dump at 145 bpm. I really need to work on that whole getting my feet out my shoes while riding into T2 thing. I must have looked silly with one shoe on as I ran to my rack. At least I didn’t fall down. Didn’t wear gloves for the first time ever on the bike and it probably saved me 30 seconds not dealing with them. I received some great encouragement from a gal on the run. I am a fast cyclist, but a crappy runner. As she ran by she said “I’ve seen your wheels, come on!” That’s so much better than “Let’s go, big man.” May as well just call me fat. Rumors regarding ice on the course were false. However, there was plenty of water and Gatorade available. I didn’t see anyone collapse, but I saw the ambulance moving around a few times. A good time was had by all.
I was at Racine. It was ONLY 98 degrees with a heat index of 110!
I managed to get through the day in pretty good shape. I left the ego in the car, basically ignored my watch except for the heart rate. Only gave 80% on the bike course and focused on drinking early & often. Was most worried about the run as I don’t run well in the heat (okay, I’m not fast on a cool day, but the heat really kills me). Fortunately there was plenty of ice on the course and by keeping my hat, bra & sides of my jersey filled with ice for most of the course I was able to keep running between all the aid stations. Passed so many that were forced to walk. Overall I had a better run rank than bike rank which has NEVER happened.
Finished with a big smile and promptly headed for the shade as 6’40" in the sun was more than enough for me.
Glad to hear all went well at Waukegan - some of my friends were their racing. At least you were off the course before the worst of the heat!
congrats. i chickened out and laid in bed as the alarm clock went off. went to the start. it already was too hot to race. waves also looked huge. there were at least 200 unclaimed timer chips on the board at the start out of 1500 registered. went home to a pool party for my daughter and nephews. too hot to watch 3 kids in a splash pool, much less do a HIM. Great job and hope your recovery goes well.