Iron Pol

Last year, the Spirit of Racine triathlon was the second half-Ironman I raced with George Schweitzer and Iron Wil.  Okay, "raced" might be a bit of an exaggeration.  Wil and I were just close enough to George to see him on the run course.  He was a full lap ahead of us, so we weren't a big threat to his finish position.

Racine was a great race.  It was also a learning experience for my wife and I when it comes to "away" games.  This was the first major race where we had to travel away from home.  We learned things like "book your hotel early."  And "no vacancy" on the Internet means something different than on the phone (in other words, call even if the Internet says a hotel has no rooms).  Iron Wil apparently knew this and was able to stay at a fairly nice hotel near the race course.  My wife, no not near and not so nice.

I will be racing the half-IM again, this year, and look forward to the opportunity to meet any bloggers who will be there.  Whether racing or spectating, it's good to know who is around.  Whether it's passing someone on the course or seeing someone cheering, familiar faces make any race more enjoyable.

If we get a feel for who will be at the race, we should be able to make arrangements for a get together, perhaps for lunch or dinner.  This year should be easier for two reasons.  First, I know the area better and won't spend as much time lost.  Second, we should be able to get out of the Fox Valley without having to clean a bottle of nail polish out of my daughter's hair.  That will make any meet-and-greet easier to attend.

In all the races I've done, the opportunity to meet other bloggers has been just as exciting as the race itself.  So if you will be in Racine for this year's race, let me know.  We'll put together a list and see what we can coordinate.

Along a similar line, if you will be participating in the High Cliff Triathlon, please let me know.  I live in the area and will be volunteering at this year's race.  At this time, I don't intend on racing, but will still consider a pre-race pasta feast at my house if people are interested.  We had a great time, last year!

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