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Race Result

Racer: Richard Volpe
Race: Luray International Triathlon
Date: Saturday, August 18, 2007
Location: Luray, VA
Race Type: Triathlon - International Distance
Age Group: Male 35 - 39
Time: 2:42:53



Race Report:



This was not only my first triathlon, but my first race of any kind. The course was awesome and the weather was perfect. I had an absolute blast and can't wait for my next race. I am pretty happy with the results considering my training has been non-existent for the last month due to work. I had a great time and got had the pleasure of meeting some fellow RATS for the first time--all very patient in answering my questions (thanks to Keith, Sean and Jon). I look forward to meeting more of you in the future.


The Swim: 31:33

As others have stated the water was warm so no wetsuit for me. I mostly wanted to wear just because I spent so much on it and wanted to put it to use! The start was as I had expected. I really took it easy as it was my first time and was just taking it all in and trying to learn from this experience for future races. I found myself stopping quite a bit at the beginning as a result. I never was uncomfortable with all the traffic. I'm really comfortable in the water as I grew up swimming in a strictly recreational way--now I'm just trying to learn how to do it the right way. On the first lap I worked on my sighting and found myself having to correct my bearing often. On the second lap things began to somewhat click and I was definitely faster. I finished strong and felt really good at the end.

T 1: 3:10

This was a slow time, but being my first transition I purposely slowed myself down a bit to make sure I had myself together for the ride. I definitely see the advantage of tri-specific shoes and may consider them in the future.

The Bike: 1:20:51

I absolutely loved this bike course. The scenery was awesome as well as the great descents, climbs, and curves. My time was slower than I would have liked, but considering I barely touched my bike for the last month I'm pretty happy. The last climb was tough but awesome.

T 2: 1:06

Again, I slowed myself down a bit. Not bad, but I learned that transitions are something I need to work on a bit.

The Run: 46:15

Here's where things got interesting for me. I think that because it has been so hot I made it a point to push fluids while on the bike. The mistake I made is I didn't adjust to the cool temps. The result was I think I drank to much. For the first 2/3 of the run I felt really sick--how I didn't puke is beyond me. But I really didn't feel good. I also didn't have comfortable running legs until the second half of the run--much longer than I anticipated. I expected to do the run in about 40 min., so I was disappointed. But considering I felt so sick and my legs were numb for the first half of the run I'm happy with it.

Again, overall I'm pretty happy with my time for my first ever event. I had a blast and the race was awesome--kudos to David Glover and set-up. I will definitely be back next year. I look forward to meeting more of you in the future when work and family permits!