Most and More

The list continues....

• Most Memorable Moment: NEW MEXICO.  I came upon an 8 year old who was racing in a youth event and attempted to inspire her by asking her to pace with me for a bit.  She tried to keep up and at one point said, "Is this your first triathlon?"  I told her no and she said it was hers.  I recommended she remember every second of it as you never forgot your first. 
• States where I had to WALK on the run:  KANSAS, MISSOURI and HAWAII.  Not that I am proud of this but these three states kicked my butt.  I had nothing left and not only did my physical body get defeated but my mind did as well.  In the words of my mother-in-law...alas, so it goes.
• Penalty given:  TEXAS.  My one and only penalty and for drafting.  In case you don't know what that is, it means I was in a cyclists jet-stream, obtaining an unfair advantage, capitalizing on their effort and putting us both at risk of an accident.  Did I realize I was doing it?  Yes.   Does everyone do it? Yes.  Do I do it anymore?  No.

A Clarification

I had a birthday on Christmas Eve and received many lovely messages celebrating the day.  Thank you.  But most of the messages were congratulating me on turning 50 and entering the new decade.  Bear with me; this is a little confusing to explain.  I am not yet 50 but a mere 49 years old.  However, as of January 1, the triathlon governing body considers me 50 because I turn 50 years old in 2014.  As of January 1, I compete in the 50-54 age group...which I am actually looking forward to.  On any given day, I hardly remember how old I am.  My mother barely knows because of this little technicality with the USAT. This past year I was competing as a 49 year old even though I was only 48.  Does this make sense?  So while I have appreciated the loving thoughts and welcoming to the next decade, it is a bit premature.  Even though my calf will sport the number 50 for my 2014 season, my real age is still 49, until next December 24.   I do hope this clears up any lingering confusion. 

My FOX Interview

Just checked the FoxNY website and my interview is up.... best birthday present ever. Check it out. New York News

Every State Has a Story

As I continue with my recap list, here are some favs:

• Most Chaotic Transition: WEST VIRGINIA.  With a Sprint, Olympic and Half Ironman distance happening in the same small parking garage, there were bodies everywhere going every which way.  While most transition areas are outdoors, this one was in an underground parking garage.  Impossible for spectators to view and challenging to maneuver around other athletes.
• Coldest Water: MAINE.  A dock start plunge into the Atlantic Ocean took my breath away.  Maine water NEVER warms up.  Low 50s for sure and you could hear gasping as everyone jumped in.  Brutal.
• Most Frightening: OHIO.  Tornado.  Gail force winds.  Rain.  That's all I'll say about that.

Continued

• Hottest Race: KANSAS.  Record temps of 111 degrees.  I was dehydrated having only flown in the night before and never got the chance to prepare for the heat.  Not that I even could have.  The race was run well with freezing cold towels every 1/2 mile but honestly, what can you do with 111 degrees?
• Most Media Coverage: MINNESOTA.  Go figure. No rhyme or reason to the PR.  It was random at best and some states took the bait and others didn't jump at all. Minnesota did a front page spread and the race was very supportive of the press effort.  It was nice because the article posted before the race so by the time the event came, people knew who I was and were able to approach me with questions.  Certainly made my outreach effort easier.
• Further distance traveled: HAWAII.  Close second is Alaska but I think Hawaii has it beat by just a little bit.  Lucky for me,  Hawaiian Airlines started direct flights out of JFK so there was no layover midway.  Made for a long flight but two movies, two meals and a nap... and I was there.

More soon....