After getting outrun at Xterra Bonelli, I was hoping to put together a more complete race at Laguna Beach. Not sure what it is, but this just isn't the year I'd been hoping it to be in regards to running. So, as it stands, I do all that I can to hold people off from passing me.
Swim (32:23)
7th of 22 out of the water.
Posted as 1,500 meters, actual 1,885 yards. No, I didn't swim that crooked. By most accounts the course was long. Also, the timing mat for T1 was way up the beach.
T1 (1:38)
3rd of 22 in T1
The timing mat was way up the beach. This is a long run up from the beach to the parking lot, but I think I was pretty efficient and on the bike relatively quick. No major issues....now, on to the trails...
Bike (1:21:41, 16.2 miles, 11.8 mph)
3rd of 22 on the bike.
This is not a real technical course, but it is full of climbing. There is one 9-10 minute climb that you have to do three times before the day is over.
T2 (0:41)
2nd out of 22 in T2
No messing around here.
Run (1:01:21, 6.8 miles)
7th of 22 on the run.
Uggh, this was not a fun run. I was constantly looking over my shoulder, knowing more guys were chasing me down. At one point, I was in 2nd place in the age group, but ultimately couldn't hang on.
Final (2:57:45)
3rd place in the age group (out of 22), same as Xterra Bonelli Park. The run was painful, and not just because of the hills. It's time to take some time off and see what's causing this discomfort.
Getting set up in transition. The orange towel makes my spot easy to find.
Yeah for me, the swim is done. BlueSeventy Helix wetsuit.
I managed to stay ahead of these guys, no thanks to the slow traffic throughout the 'no pass' zone.
Rounding the corner to go down Elevator.
Super Xterra racer and teammate, Tom Monica.
A long, fast straightaway before heading back up I Think I Can.
Thanks to the guys from Tru Cycling for all the great pics.
I ditched the glasses because of the mist.
I did it, 3rd in the age group and 13th overall.
