I mentioned yesterday that I was going to shave my legs for my race today. I didn’t. I got down to Salisbury, MD (for the ACS Sprint Triathlon) a little late yesterday, did my workout, went out to eat. By the time I got back to the hotel room it was too late to start shaving the acres of hair on my body.
I should have taken the time.
The race started well… no problems in the swim except I reverted back to breathing on the right side (I practice going from one side to another all winter). Got on the bike and got passed by 5 people… but, they had much fancier bikes… so, I have an excuse. 
So, as I’m finishing the bike I’m nearing the transition area and I begin to slip out of my cycling shoes. Left foot out… check. Right foot? I look down and lose my balance. I go into the ground hard and slide. My first official crash. Knee scraped up. Elbow busted up. Nasty road burn all down my left side. OUCH. I pop right up and sprint into the transition area with tons of people cheering me on!!! (Thanks!!!) The run goes fine… and, I end up finishing 3rd in my age group. Now, if I had only shaved I’m sure I wouldn’t look like the bruised tomato that I do now. I’m red all over…
So, a couple of things struck me. I don’t ever hear anyone thank the medics. When the race was over I walked over to the ambulance and a nice lady helped me out - cleaned the wounds and bandaged them up. For what it’s worth… thank you. And, thank you to all of the other medics out there that take the time to help us athletes out.
Also, at the ACS Tri I saw something I’ve never seen. They gave out a volunteering award. VERY VERY COOL. I think every race should do this. These people make it possible for us to race and they deserve more than just a thank you. So, I just wanted to say… it was neat to see that.