Vineman in Pictures

It was a terrific feeling to be amongst friends and athletes at last week's Vineman triathlon races. I entered the "Aquabike" which is a unique (and relatively new) multisport event that combines swimming and cycling. In addition to the Full Vineman Ironman distance event and Barb's Race (half-ironman triathlon), race organizers also put on the Full and Half Vineman Aquabike.





Having not raced in such a long time, it really was a treat to get back to the routine of prepping gear, getting up early and revving up for a day of competition. I wasn't particularly anxious for the race, but I think that has a lot to do with the fact that I know where my fitness is and isn't. I was aiming to savor the experience, support other racers and just see what would come together.

At the end of the race, I was wiped and plenty satisfied with 'just' a swim and bike. I finished 3rd woman overall (2nd 30-39) and 8th among everyone.

While I had really enjoyed racing, a lot more fun was ahead. Phil, our friend Tilden and various folks from the SF Tri Club volunteered at a run aid station for the Full Vineman triathletes. Phil and I started our volunteers duties at 2pm and stayed until the very last competitors past by us at around 11 pm. It was quite amazing to see each athlete's personal struggles along the way.

Here's Coach Phil with his 'shower' hose. Although it looks like he is watering somebody's flower garden, Coach Phil is eagerly waiting some sweaty customers.





It was mighty toasty for the athletes and Coach Phil offered the willing a nice, cool rinse and some respite from the afternoon sun. As the afternoon sun gave way to the cooler hours of the evening twilight, we heard a lot of interesting requests and comments from athletes. Among the most memorable and most frequent:

1) Will you marry me?
2) How many ounces are in this cup?
3) How many calories are in this?
4) I owe you guys dinner.
5) Where's the turnaround?

Ahhhhh!

As the day wore on, we began to recognize each of the athletes. On this three loop course, our aid station was located before a turn around which meant we would serve each and every athletes six times throughout the race. Interacting with the athletes gave me great perspective for their hard work on the race course and the work of the volunteers supporting them.

Once the sun set and the crickets finished their serenade, it became very dark and very lonely on that wine country road. Without ambiant light or street lights runners were reduced to shuffling in the dark. Although some athletes had headlamps, the only way you could 'see' folks was by the glowy necklaces worn around their necks. (provided by the race organizers for safety). It was very eery to see glowing circles, sometimes solo and sometimes in small groups, slowly advancing towards us. We did our best to make noise, provide nourishment and enthusiastic encouragement beside the ambiance of our laterns.

Congratulations to each and every Vineman athlete. Special congrats to friends Bill and Flavio of Ventura's Rincon Triathlon Club. Bill earned another Ironman finish to tatoo on his arm and Flavio placed first place in the Men 55-59 age group. Way to go guys!