MEMTRI_2008

Everyone has been asking for an update on the Memphis in May Triathlon, so here is the update.

On May 16th our group left Geneva for Memphis.  The group consisted of Todd, Carrie, 

Kevin, Melisa, Lorrie, who are my friends and neighbors, and Adam, Lindsay, Deb, and Sally who are fellow members of the Multisportmaddness Triathlon Club.  The weather in Memphis was in a word, "outstanding".  Mid seventies to low eighties, sunny with a light breeze, perfect for competing in a triathlon.

A special thanks to Mike and Haley Martin, who hosted our group Saturday evening with a wonderful "Carb-Loading" meal at their home.  The food was great, the social interaction was engaging, and the "Southern" hospitality was, as always, perfect.  Everyone loved the time at the Martins, and enjoyed the entertainment by Abigail.

Adam was true to form and came in first in his age group.  Lindsey, Deb, and Sally did an outstanding job and finished in the top of their respective age groups.  MultisportMaddness was well represented.  Lorrie finished first among the friends and neighbors group, Kevin followed Lorrie, and Todd was just a few minutes behind.  As for yours truly, I brought up the rear.  I had a great swim, strong bike, and was in good shape going into the run.  During the run, I started to experience leg cramps and was forced to walk, jog, walk, jog, and finish with a slow run to the Medical tent to check my blood sugar.  My goal was to finish and I completed my goal.  During the swim, I felt a little like a ball in a in a pinball game, full of bumpers.  People were swimming into me, over me, under me, hitting me...I was swimming into others, over others...you get the picture. The bike was much better and I went faster than expected. All in all I can't wait to compete in the Racine race in July.  It seems nuts, but I have to tell you the competition is addictive and I am looking forward to going again.  Some people exercise to participate in triathlons, I participate in triathlons because I exercise.  The triathlon gives meaning to all of the exercise that I need to do to combat the diabetes and heart disease. Although triathlons are an individual enterprise, the support, encouragement, and team training are invaluable.  Thanks to Todd, Kevin, and Lorrie for the companionship and training, thanks to the Multisportmaddness club for the inspiration and challenge.