Sprint distance triathlon 2007 in Lampertheim: Short and painful
on 0.5/20/5 km. My first event of this kind.
Despite of being a total greenhorn I gaily brought along my
little PINK dress!
Solely for the purpose of this sport I had invested heavily
into many of the flotsam washing onto shores of some godforsaken
electronic bay. The initial training rides left no doubt:
Perfect color-concept and ready for the Autobahn.
As a race-proven MTB-jockey I was totally calm at the start
line. As a triathlon-greenhorn this should change very soon
in the water. After meticulously training in the pool I had
to find out that hearty bodyslapping in brackwater is an entirely
different discipline. Needless to say, the first part turned
out to be close to catastrophic. Considering the learning-curve
though, it was well worth signing up.
The first transition went well. I should have left the bottle
and the powerbar at home. Best for a sprint is to race hungry.
Those who thought that the last third of the pack should become
my destiny were dearly disappointed. With my carbon fiber
rocket-ship I delivered a 38 average on a flat and windy course.
Passing dozens of competitors severely boosted my moral. I
am mainly a biker after all.
By the way, observe the writing on the behind. I do not train
in these daring clothes without bodyguards!
The second transition taught me another lesson: I was told
that the legs would hurt. However, I experienced the midriff
being a cause for threatening pains at this kind of heart
rate. Keeping my breathing in control was what I mainly had
to focus on during the run.
Nevertheless, I was proud and able to continue my passing-frenzy.
Due to injuries in winter and spring my running endurance
was at its limit when I came in as 25th of 93 (01:05:25.69).
I was amazed at the large number of quick old geezers. It
turned out that I was only 11th in my M40 age group. My photographer
and I then looked for a cozy place to feed and drink. After
asking nicely if the seats were vacant they promptly were.
As a reward the entourage was treated with juvenile beauty.
Shortly before leaving the town I discovered that also Lampertheim
must be infested with Pirates. I assume that these species
are occupied with non-sports activities such as extortion
or prostitution.
The next event for me will be an Olympic distance triathlon
in Ladenburg. Thanks to Seaman Adrian for the cool photos.