Hi Racers,
80 days to go before Memorial Day Weekend kicks off and Tri for Our Veterans II launches. With 80 days to go, we just reached 80% capacity for the race-- what a coincidence! We have over 300 racers signed up and more going into the system tonight (Team Semper Fi). Last year, we capped our race at 400 and we expect the same limits from the city.
If you know of someone interested, or, if you have not signed up for Sea Isle's Summer triathlon, do so now by visiting http://www.piranha-sports.com/Race54.aspx
We will sell out and we will NOT offer any type of registration during race week.
Other race updates:
1. Giveaway: Long sleeve t-shirt, light blue. I met with our supplier and love the design, quality of the shirt.
2. Giveaway II: Hoping to deliver a Coolmax visor to each racer. I tried one supplier, but everything has to make its way to Sea Isle on a SLOW BOAT from China. That will not work. I still have high hopes for a cool visor!
3. Medals for Mettle: The race registration area in Sea Isle will have a table from www.medals4mettle.org. This organization takes your old race medals, cleans them up, puts a new ribbon on it, and gives it to people fighting disease or other health related battles. Very cool idea and we are happy to extend an invitation to them-- if you have any medals you would like to donate, bring them to registration!
More to come...until then, See you in Sea Isle City!
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Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Monday, February 23, 2009
Oakley signs on as Sponsor
Great news to share-- Oakley has signed on as a sponsor. Our top athletes will be chasing an awesome prize packages, which will include Oakley sunglasses.
Oakley really stands out from the crowd of companies offering sunglasses, especially when it comes to products geared towards triathletes.
I wear the Flak Jacket model when competing and it is a great offering. They are lightweight, a snug, but comfortable fit around my [big] head, and they block the UV rays. Believe it or not, sunglasses actually conserve energy during endurance races. How? Every time you squint due to the sun, you are using muscles, which draw down energy levels. Oakley sunglasses can help you go longer, go farther.
I am very happy to see so many companies stepping up to help our military veterans. If you are a company looking to help, I'd like to point out our social networking prowess-- Tri for Our Veterans had 450 competitors last year and attracted 2,000+ spectators. Our email blast list reaches more than 7,000 people. This race blog has attracted more than 1,000 page views per month for over a year, and the Facebook Group has more than 90 members in the 15 days since it was created. If you sponsor, people will know about it!
Sea you in Sea Isle City!
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Friday, February 20, 2009
SELL OUT coming...Heads up.
Hey racers,
Tri for Our Veterans II is really shaping up nicely. Our sponsors have been great and I wanted to give a shout out to XTERRA Wesuits. They are again supplying us with a sponsorship package, which includes prizes for the winners and swimcaps for all participants. THANK YOU XTERRA!
XTERRA is also preferred partner for anyone looking to purchase a wetsuit OR if you need to rent a wetsuit. Click HERE if for rentals, or HERE for purchasing.
I swim with a Vector Pro X2 and love it.
SOLD OUT? I received an email this week about our status. We are not sold out...yet. We recently eclipsed the 75% mark-- I encourage everyone to register now if they want a spot. Last year, we allowed a number of athletes to register on the day before the race. This will not be happening in 2009.
Register now by clicking HERE. See you in Sea Isle City!
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Tri for Our Veterans II is really shaping up nicely. Our sponsors have been great and I wanted to give a shout out to XTERRA Wesuits. They are again supplying us with a sponsorship package, which includes prizes for the winners and swimcaps for all participants. THANK YOU XTERRA!
XTERRA is also preferred partner for anyone looking to purchase a wetsuit OR if you need to rent a wetsuit. Click HERE if for rentals, or HERE for purchasing.
I swim with a Vector Pro X2 and love it.
SOLD OUT? I received an email this week about our status. We are not sold out...yet. We recently eclipsed the 75% mark-- I encourage everyone to register now if they want a spot. Last year, we allowed a number of athletes to register on the day before the race. This will not be happening in 2009.
Register now by clicking HERE. See you in Sea Isle City!
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Monday, February 9, 2009
Long time no post!
Wow! Has it really been almost a month since my last posting on this blog? What kindo fo race blog am I offering?
The Race Director just woke up to find 103 days before race day. YIKES!
I have been busy elsewhere. Here are some updates:
1. Race giveaway: Looks like we are going with a sport visor and long sleeve t-shirt. Check out Headsweats, a new, up and coming company focused on hats/visors that wick away the sweat. They have a great product and we have tentatively agreed to go with one of their visors as a race giveaway. My wife is helping me pick the t-shirt this weekend-- to be clear, there will not be a WHITE t-shirt as the giveaway! 2008 Racers expressed disappointment with this aspect of the race and we aim to please. Last year's Polar bottle was a huge hit, but we wanted to offer something different this year and I think the Headsweats visor will be welcomed.
2. Race registration stands at 150-160. Last year, we had 400 and we expect a little more in 2009. The City of Sea Isle has not yet told us our cap, but my guess is around 500. Sign up now-- the registration fee goes up on March 1st!
3. Course review: The course was reviewed by Sea Isle's Police and Beach Patrol. Good news! No significant changes to this year's course. We are blocking off more corners with NO PARKING signs, which will make the turns go smoother.
4. Duathlon: Remember, this year we will hold a duathlon (run-bike-run). The first leg is a two mile run on the street. Them you follow the bike and run legs of the triathlon. Pass the word!
5. Tri for Our Veterans on Facebook: Join the Tri for Our Veterans Group on Facebook!
See you soon in Sea Isle City!
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The Race Director just woke up to find 103 days before race day. YIKES!
I have been busy elsewhere. Here are some updates:
1. Race giveaway: Looks like we are going with a sport visor and long sleeve t-shirt. Check out Headsweats, a new, up and coming company focused on hats/visors that wick away the sweat. They have a great product and we have tentatively agreed to go with one of their visors as a race giveaway. My wife is helping me pick the t-shirt this weekend-- to be clear, there will not be a WHITE t-shirt as the giveaway! 2008 Racers expressed disappointment with this aspect of the race and we aim to please. Last year's Polar bottle was a huge hit, but we wanted to offer something different this year and I think the Headsweats visor will be welcomed.
2. Race registration stands at 150-160. Last year, we had 400 and we expect a little more in 2009. The City of Sea Isle has not yet told us our cap, but my guess is around 500. Sign up now-- the registration fee goes up on March 1st!
3. Course review: The course was reviewed by Sea Isle's Police and Beach Patrol. Good news! No significant changes to this year's course. We are blocking off more corners with NO PARKING signs, which will make the turns go smoother.
4. Duathlon: Remember, this year we will hold a duathlon (run-bike-run). The first leg is a two mile run on the street. Them you follow the bike and run legs of the triathlon. Pass the word!
5. Tri for Our Veterans on Facebook: Join the Tri for Our Veterans Group on Facebook!
See you soon in Sea Isle City!
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Sunday, January 11, 2009
Training Tips
Tri for Our Veterans is off to a BOOMING start with 110 people signed up so far. Very exciting. Last year, we had 400 registrations and we will surpass this number by May.
I am often asked questions about the race-- is it a good race for 1st timers, is the ocean swim scary, how should I tailor my training, and will the sandy beach run slow me down. Here are some answers and a few training tips:
1st Timers? Yup, more than welcome. Last year, 40% of our racers were "rookies" and 99.85% finished. Pretty good, huh? The Sprint Distance is a great way to experience a triathlon. All of the distances are as short as possible and you can practice the various legs (see training tips below).
Ocean swim scary? Are you kidding? A scary swim, to me, is a stagnant, land-locked lake or pond with yucky run off (when it rains, dog/goose crap and other stuff finds its way into the pond), low visibility, and who knows what on the bottom. In the ocean, you are swimming in a very clean, visible water table. Our race is staffed by Sea Isle City's Beach Patrol, who can be at your side in seconds, thanks to their outstanding training and equipment (jet ski!). The Beach Patrol are in the water with you and surround the swim course. Plus, we also set our swim course to go WITH the current...you'll be out in no time. Last year, the average time in the water was under 14 minutes (fastest was 6 mins, slowest was 19 mins).
Slow, sandy beach run? Running on the beach is certainly different than running on the sidewalk. Will it be slower than running a 5k on the streets? Yes, but our average times map consistently with the garden variety 5k road race--- meaning, not that much of a difference. One suggestion is to try and do a training run on the beach. Another tip, find the hardest piece of salty beach line and stick with it. Positives--- running next to the ocean is just awesome.
Training tips? My fist triathlon was the Avalon Islandman, a race I still go back to every year-- wonderfully run and the course is very similar to ours in Sea Isle (same distance too). Looking back, I would have done a lot of things differently. Here are a few suggestions:
1. Plan backwards: Race date is May 23rd. Plan your training from that day and march backwards on the calendar. You'll want to hit certain milestones in training (run "X" miles, Bike "Y" miles). Try to "peak" or hit your longest distances in early May. You'll want to leave two weeks to taper off your training. The body needs to rest.
2. Do a "Brick": A brick work out means you are putting two training sessions back-to-back. I suggest doing a bike ride followed by a run. When getting off the bike, some racers experience "jelly" legs and you'll want to have that experience when hitting the run. Try it out-- do a mock race if you need to. By doing a brick, you'll eliminate the surprise feeling of jelly legs.
3. Distances: Because this is a Sprint distance (400m swim, 12.3 mile bike, 3.1 mile run), there is no need to train at heavy distances. It is more important to consistently hit the distances. For instance, training for the run portion does not require you to log 40 miles a week or a 10 mile run. Instead, focus on doing 3.1 miles well-- hone in your speed by running hills, completing a brick, and having the confidence to do all three segments.
4. Average finishing time: Last year, the average finishing time was 1 hour, 28 minutes. By May one of your goals (if this is your first triathlon), should be to exercise for over an hour. Preferably, work out for 90 minutes-- any type of cardio will do and any combination. The Brick I suggested? Maybe a goal for you is to be able to bike for 60 minutes and immediately switch to a 30 minute run. If you can do this by May, you can complete the race.
5. Plan your work, work your plan: Using the "backward calendar", you have laid out your workout plan for the race. Now do it! Sounds easy, but so many people have already given up on their January 1st resolution of getting in shape. Don't be that guy/girl.
See you soon in Sea Isle City...133 days before the race.
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I am often asked questions about the race-- is it a good race for 1st timers, is the ocean swim scary, how should I tailor my training, and will the sandy beach run slow me down. Here are some answers and a few training tips:
1st Timers? Yup, more than welcome. Last year, 40% of our racers were "rookies" and 99.85% finished. Pretty good, huh? The Sprint Distance is a great way to experience a triathlon. All of the distances are as short as possible and you can practice the various legs (see training tips below).
Ocean swim scary? Are you kidding? A scary swim, to me, is a stagnant, land-locked lake or pond with yucky run off (when it rains, dog/goose crap and other stuff finds its way into the pond), low visibility, and who knows what on the bottom. In the ocean, you are swimming in a very clean, visible water table. Our race is staffed by Sea Isle City's Beach Patrol, who can be at your side in seconds, thanks to their outstanding training and equipment (jet ski!). The Beach Patrol are in the water with you and surround the swim course. Plus, we also set our swim course to go WITH the current...you'll be out in no time. Last year, the average time in the water was under 14 minutes (fastest was 6 mins, slowest was 19 mins).
Slow, sandy beach run? Running on the beach is certainly different than running on the sidewalk. Will it be slower than running a 5k on the streets? Yes, but our average times map consistently with the garden variety 5k road race--- meaning, not that much of a difference. One suggestion is to try and do a training run on the beach. Another tip, find the hardest piece of salty beach line and stick with it. Positives--- running next to the ocean is just awesome.
Training tips? My fist triathlon was the Avalon Islandman, a race I still go back to every year-- wonderfully run and the course is very similar to ours in Sea Isle (same distance too). Looking back, I would have done a lot of things differently. Here are a few suggestions:
1. Plan backwards: Race date is May 23rd. Plan your training from that day and march backwards on the calendar. You'll want to hit certain milestones in training (run "X" miles, Bike "Y" miles). Try to "peak" or hit your longest distances in early May. You'll want to leave two weeks to taper off your training. The body needs to rest.
2. Do a "Brick": A brick work out means you are putting two training sessions back-to-back. I suggest doing a bike ride followed by a run. When getting off the bike, some racers experience "jelly" legs and you'll want to have that experience when hitting the run. Try it out-- do a mock race if you need to. By doing a brick, you'll eliminate the surprise feeling of jelly legs.
3. Distances: Because this is a Sprint distance (400m swim, 12.3 mile bike, 3.1 mile run), there is no need to train at heavy distances. It is more important to consistently hit the distances. For instance, training for the run portion does not require you to log 40 miles a week or a 10 mile run. Instead, focus on doing 3.1 miles well-- hone in your speed by running hills, completing a brick, and having the confidence to do all three segments.
4. Average finishing time: Last year, the average finishing time was 1 hour, 28 minutes. By May one of your goals (if this is your first triathlon), should be to exercise for over an hour. Preferably, work out for 90 minutes-- any type of cardio will do and any combination. The Brick I suggested? Maybe a goal for you is to be able to bike for 60 minutes and immediately switch to a 30 minute run. If you can do this by May, you can complete the race.
5. Plan your work, work your plan: Using the "backward calendar", you have laid out your workout plan for the race. Now do it! Sounds easy, but so many people have already given up on their January 1st resolution of getting in shape. Don't be that guy/girl.
See you soon in Sea Isle City...133 days before the race.
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Monday, December 15, 2008
Discounted registration fee expires soon
Reminder: Only TEN (10) days left to take advantage of 2008 pricing. Register today for "Tri For Our Veterans II" and enjoy the SAME registration fee as last year's race.
http://www.piranha-sports.com/Race54.aspx
Discount expires on 12/25! New this year-- a Duathlon-- run, bike, run. The duathlon will be started alongside the triathlon race.
Tri For Our Veterans II is scheduled for 5/23/09, the Saturday of Memorial Day Weekend, in Sea Isle City, NJ. This sprint triathlon benefits two military veteran organizations-- The Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund and Sea Isle's VFW Post 1963. Matt McCulley is the Founder & Race Director; Sea Isle's VFW Post is the financial clearinghouse and 501 (c) 4 charitable sponsor.
Triathlon: 400m Ocean swim, 12.3 mile bicycle course, 3.1 mile run (hard sand).
Duathlon: 2 mile road run, 12.3 mile bicycle course, 3.1 mile run (hard sand).
http://www.piranha-sports.com/Race54.aspx
Discount expires on 12/25! New this year-- a Duathlon-- run, bike, run. The duathlon will be started alongside the triathlon race.
Tri For Our Veterans II is scheduled for 5/23/09, the Saturday of Memorial Day Weekend, in Sea Isle City, NJ. This sprint triathlon benefits two military veteran organizations-- The Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund and Sea Isle's VFW Post 1963. Matt McCulley is the Founder & Race Director; Sea Isle's VFW Post is the financial clearinghouse and 501 (c) 4 charitable sponsor.
Triathlon: 400m Ocean swim, 12.3 mile bicycle course, 3.1 mile run (hard sand).
Duathlon: 2 mile road run, 12.3 mile bicycle course, 3.1 mile run (hard sand).
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Veterans Day
Please keep all of our Veterans in your thoughts and prayers today. A heart wrenching story abour our soldiers in Afghanistan can be found HERE.
Ongoing work for Tri for our Veterans 2...thinking about giveaways for our racers...will probably post another survey in the next few days.
Ongoing work for Tri for our Veterans 2...thinking about giveaways for our racers...will probably post another survey in the next few days.
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
We are LIVE and OPEN for [holiday] business!
Friends, Family, and Competitors:
I am happy to announce the launch of Tri for Our Veterans II. The Piranha website listed us last night and we are open for registration. Click HERE to go to the web page and registration.
With the holidays approaching, we have a special one time offer available. Sign up by Christmas and receive the pricing from 2008! Keep this in mind when you are trying to figure out what to buy for friends and family.
Curious how Tri for our Veterans got its start? Click HERE for the story.
See you in 220 days!
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I am happy to announce the launch of Tri for Our Veterans II. The Piranha website listed us last night and we are open for registration. Click HERE to go to the web page and registration.
With the holidays approaching, we have a special one time offer available. Sign up by Christmas and receive the pricing from 2008! Keep this in mind when you are trying to figure out what to buy for friends and family.
Curious how Tri for our Veterans got its start? Click HERE for the story.
See you in 220 days!
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Friday, September 26, 2008
Date is set for Tri for Our Veterans II
This week, we received permission to host Tri for Our Veterans II (Thank you Sea Isle City). On Saturday, May 23rd, 2009 at 7:30 AM, the 2nd annual Tri for Our Veterans will kick off.
This summer triathlon in Sea Isle City is truly special-- the only American triathlon dedicated to our military veterans. Last year, we welcomed 400+ racers to the Jersey Shore and rasied $35,000 for two veterans' causes-- Sea Isle's VFW and The Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund.
In 2009, we plan to introduce a duathlon alongside our super successive triathlon event. Our duathlon will be a 2 mile run, followed by a 12.4 mile bicycle, and then a 3.1 mile run. The last two legs of this race followthe final two legs of the triathlon course.
Registration will open on/about October 1st.
This summer triathlon in Sea Isle City is truly special-- the only American triathlon dedicated to our military veterans. Last year, we welcomed 400+ racers to the Jersey Shore and rasied $35,000 for two veterans' causes-- Sea Isle's VFW and The Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund.
In 2009, we plan to introduce a duathlon alongside our super successive triathlon event. Our duathlon will be a 2 mile run, followed by a 12.4 mile bicycle, and then a 3.1 mile run. The last two legs of this race followthe final two legs of the triathlon course.
Registration will open on/about October 1st.
Sunday, August 3, 2008
Idea for Tri: One Year Later
It has been one year since I dreamed up the Tri For Our Veterans race. Coincidentally, we just sent The Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund (IMSFF) a final check for $4500. In total, we raised $14,500 for the IMSFF and an additional $14,500 for the new Veterans' Memorial in Sea Isle.
I am very pleased with our results.
The needs of our veterans' are not going away. Every day, casualties are reported in both Afghanistan and Iraq. These soldiers will need our help when they return. Tri For Our Veterans II planning has already started and we look forward to raising the bar and donating more money to organizations like the Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund.
Thank you to all who volunteered, raced, and watched this year's race. I will be posting some key announcements for Tri for Our Veterans II in the coming months, including the addition of a duathlon event run simultaneously next to the triathlon. The race will also continue the tradition of handing out the best prizes and race packs. Please stay tuned for more information.
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I am very pleased with our results.
The needs of our veterans' are not going away. Every day, casualties are reported in both Afghanistan and Iraq. These soldiers will need our help when they return. Tri For Our Veterans II planning has already started and we look forward to raising the bar and donating more money to organizations like the Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund.
Thank you to all who volunteered, raced, and watched this year's race. I will be posting some key announcements for Tri for Our Veterans II in the coming months, including the addition of a duathlon event run simultaneously next to the triathlon. The race will also continue the tradition of handing out the best prizes and race packs. Please stay tuned for more information.
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Monday, June 30, 2008
Avalon Islandman 2008
Yesterday was the tri in Avalon. This was the first triathlon I ever competed in and I really, really like the race. When I first started to put Tri for Our Veterans together, I often thought about Avalon and how it was shaped, organized, and directed. Their race director, Midge, does a wonderful job and she continued her great work yesterday.
The race was a lot of fun and it too donates a significant amount of money to various organizations and charities. The course is very nice-- especially the bike, which I consider the best in South Jersey. The swim yesterday was brutal-- the water temperature was fine, but boy was it rough. I was smacked in the face with a monster wave and it threw me right on omy back. Just goes to show you-- you cannot control Mother Nature. Tri for Our Veterans had colder water, but it was smooth as silk out there. I think I would rather have a cold, but calm ocean!
Iron Granny (my mom) completed her 2nd Tri-- and she broke two hours! Awesome race, Iron Granny!
Check out the results by clicking HERE.
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The race was a lot of fun and it too donates a significant amount of money to various organizations and charities. The course is very nice-- especially the bike, which I consider the best in South Jersey. The swim yesterday was brutal-- the water temperature was fine, but boy was it rough. I was smacked in the face with a monster wave and it threw me right on omy back. Just goes to show you-- you cannot control Mother Nature. Tri for Our Veterans had colder water, but it was smooth as silk out there. I think I would rather have a cold, but calm ocean!
Iron Granny (my mom) completed her 2nd Tri-- and she broke two hours! Awesome race, Iron Granny!
Check out the results by clicking HERE.
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Tuesday, June 17, 2008
We're #1
If you were at the race, you know we handed a check for $10,000 to the Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund. We were still closing the financial books on the race and we could not give them the full amount we raised, so we figured we would give them a significant portion of the funds. Plus, let's face it-- $10,000 is a nice round number!
As it turns out, we are sending another check for roughly $3,000-4,000. The kind people at the Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund told me this was their largest donation from a community event.
Yes, Sea Isle friends, we are #1!!
Of course, this was only 50% of our total revenue. The rest of the money was turned over to Sea Isle's VFW, for their efforts to improve the Veterans' Memorial in town. Honestly, it feels great to help our worthy soldiers AND honor the past through a [local] memorial.
Lastly, we are kicking in plans for next year. This year, I think we had some very cool give aways for our racers-- t-shirt, Polar water bottle, and a beach bag. Check out the poll on the side of this blog and vote for next year's SWAG!! What should we do-- premium beach towel, Coolmax hats (sweat wicking hat), Under Armor like t-shirt, or cotton long sleeve. VOTE!
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As it turns out, we are sending another check for roughly $3,000-4,000. The kind people at the Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund told me this was their largest donation from a community event.
Yes, Sea Isle friends, we are #1!!
Of course, this was only 50% of our total revenue. The rest of the money was turned over to Sea Isle's VFW, for their efforts to improve the Veterans' Memorial in town. Honestly, it feels great to help our worthy soldiers AND honor the past through a [local] memorial.
Lastly, we are kicking in plans for next year. This year, I think we had some very cool give aways for our racers-- t-shirt, Polar water bottle, and a beach bag. Check out the poll on the side of this blog and vote for next year's SWAG!! What should we do-- premium beach towel, Coolmax hats (sweat wicking hat), Under Armor like t-shirt, or cotton long sleeve. VOTE!
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Tuesday, May 27, 2008
Photos, Tri for Our Veterans II
I would say this photo says it all. Nice job, Athletes. You were fast, furious, and extremely patriotic.
Check out more photos like this at: http://picasaweb.google.com/seaisletriathlon
As for next year, we have already been invited back by the City of Sea Isle. Plans are already taking shape (crazy, right!)...and we plan on offering a duathlon alongside of our triathlon.
See you in Sea Isle City...2009!
Saturday, May 24, 2008
Finshed...12 hours later
Yes, most of the racers finished 12 hours ago, but I needed a break before tonight's posting. After lunch, a 2 hour nap, dinner, and Rita's, I am finally able to type.
First, awesome job, racers. Check out the results by clicking HERE. We had very few problems, limited-minor injuries. Sea Isle's Beach Patrol rescued a few racers-- one person remarked that he had never did an ocean swim and was intimidated. The ocean was chilly, but calm.
Second, we raised almost $30,000 for our veterans' causes. This is really a tremendous feat for a first year event. THANK YOU! Besides raising a boatload of money, we also paid for the best timing service available (Go Piranha Sports), assembled a great racer bag (Polar Bottles), and handed out some outstanding prizes (iPOD, Swiss Army Watches, Gift Certificates).
Thirdly, we really pulled together the community of Sea isle City. I was shocked to see more than 120 volunteers show up for the meeting on Friday night-- only half of which had signed up before the meeting-- the others heard about it through word of mouth. People simply wanted to help our veterans-- THANK YOU! The City of Sea Isle was so supportive-- we just could not have done it without their support.
Lastly, I am working on a collage of photos. I will work to post them soon and you are free to download them (yes, free pics!).
I am exhausted-- went to bed at 1030 last night and up at 330. Most of the night, I did not sleep and woke up thinking about the race (I honestly counted bike racks 6 times in my head). Though tired, this is one of the most fulfilling experiences I have ever been apart of (behind my family events-- witnessing the birth of my 3 children, getting married, etc.). Thank you all for the many compliments-- we all did something special today-- we recognized the role of our military and its veterans, something every American should do. I know during my next race, I will surely recall the image of Team Semper Fi members crossing the finish line with a smile on their face as inspiration. Man, the Marines in Sea Isle are athletes-- they kicked butt out there today. Despite some of their injuries, they out kicked a majority of the age-group participants!
(Dan Lasko, I will be emailing you for swim tips-- your time was amazing).
Thank you all for reading this blog over the past few months, for supporting this race, and for keeping the Memorial in Memorial Day. You helped your fellow Americans today-- those brave souls who put on a uniform to protect our many freedoms. Thank you!
See you in Sea isle City...2009!
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First, awesome job, racers. Check out the results by clicking HERE. We had very few problems, limited-minor injuries. Sea Isle's Beach Patrol rescued a few racers-- one person remarked that he had never did an ocean swim and was intimidated. The ocean was chilly, but calm.
Second, we raised almost $30,000 for our veterans' causes. This is really a tremendous feat for a first year event. THANK YOU! Besides raising a boatload of money, we also paid for the best timing service available (Go Piranha Sports), assembled a great racer bag (Polar Bottles), and handed out some outstanding prizes (iPOD, Swiss Army Watches, Gift Certificates).
Thirdly, we really pulled together the community of Sea isle City. I was shocked to see more than 120 volunteers show up for the meeting on Friday night-- only half of which had signed up before the meeting-- the others heard about it through word of mouth. People simply wanted to help our veterans-- THANK YOU! The City of Sea Isle was so supportive-- we just could not have done it without their support.
Lastly, I am working on a collage of photos. I will work to post them soon and you are free to download them (yes, free pics!).
I am exhausted-- went to bed at 1030 last night and up at 330. Most of the night, I did not sleep and woke up thinking about the race (I honestly counted bike racks 6 times in my head). Though tired, this is one of the most fulfilling experiences I have ever been apart of (behind my family events-- witnessing the birth of my 3 children, getting married, etc.). Thank you all for the many compliments-- we all did something special today-- we recognized the role of our military and its veterans, something every American should do. I know during my next race, I will surely recall the image of Team Semper Fi members crossing the finish line with a smile on their face as inspiration. Man, the Marines in Sea Isle are athletes-- they kicked butt out there today. Despite some of their injuries, they out kicked a majority of the age-group participants!
(Dan Lasko, I will be emailing you for swim tips-- your time was amazing).
Thank you all for reading this blog over the past few months, for supporting this race, and for keeping the Memorial in Memorial Day. You helped your fellow Americans today-- those brave souls who put on a uniform to protect our many freedoms. Thank you!
See you in Sea isle City...2009!
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Friday, May 23, 2008
Live Report
Anyone check the weather from around the country? It is miserable...everywhere EXCEPT little ol' Sea Isle City.
Water temperature is 60 degrees and the ocean is a sheet of glass-- really, if the conditions hold until tomorrow, we are looking at very ideal swimming conditions for the ocean.
Transition area was set up yesterday and the racks were installed. The racks are numbered-- 1-18, 19-36....please rack your bike according to your bib number.
Bathroom situation: Always a key component to a race. We have a bathroom trailer IN the transition area (racers only) and Sea Isle has a bathroom facility right next to the transition area. Additionally, there are bathrooms just to the south (44th Street beach) and to the north (37th Street).
Tomorrow's weather report: Sunrise at 539AM, air temperature of 61 degrees at the start. High of 74 degrees. BOOYAH!
See you tonight at the packet pickup-- 4-830PM, Sea Isle's VFW.
Water temperature is 60 degrees and the ocean is a sheet of glass-- really, if the conditions hold until tomorrow, we are looking at very ideal swimming conditions for the ocean.
Transition area was set up yesterday and the racks were installed. The racks are numbered-- 1-18, 19-36....please rack your bike according to your bib number.
Bathroom situation: Always a key component to a race. We have a bathroom trailer IN the transition area (racers only) and Sea Isle has a bathroom facility right next to the transition area. Additionally, there are bathrooms just to the south (44th Street beach) and to the north (37th Street).
Tomorrow's weather report: Sunrise at 539AM, air temperature of 61 degrees at the start. High of 74 degrees. BOOYAH!
See you tonight at the packet pickup-- 4-830PM, Sea Isle's VFW.
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Coincidence?
As you might have noticed, I am a huge RFK fan. Teddy I respect & wish a speedy recovery. (He is not his brother [s]). Ted Kennedy did deliver one of my favorites speeches of all time, a eulogy of his brother, Robert. Two favorite lines I think about constantly, especially while planning this race:
"Few will have the greatness to bend history itself, but each of us can work to change a small portion of events, and in the total of all those acts will be written the history of this generation... Each time a man stands up for an ideal, or acts to improve the lot of others, or strikes out against injustice, he sends forth a tiny ripple of hope..."
And
"Through no virtues and accomplishments of our own, we have been fortunate enough to be born in the United States under the most comfortable conditions. We, therefore, have a responsibility to others who are less well off."
If you are not racing this weekend, please come out and cheer on those who are, especially our military!
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"Few will have the greatness to bend history itself, but each of us can work to change a small portion of events, and in the total of all those acts will be written the history of this generation... Each time a man stands up for an ideal, or acts to improve the lot of others, or strikes out against injustice, he sends forth a tiny ripple of hope..."
And
"Through no virtues and accomplishments of our own, we have been fortunate enough to be born in the United States under the most comfortable conditions. We, therefore, have a responsibility to others who are less well off."
If you are not racing this weekend, please come out and cheer on those who are, especially our military!
.
Weather Update, other tidbits
Weather update: Still looking great. Low of 54 degrees, high of 71. Folks, this is perfect weather for a triathlon. If we can keep the winds down, we are headed for a delightful day. The wind is usually a killer on a bike course, but I am not worried about that portion of the race. Sea Isle's bike course would probably be easy in the wind-- it is the swim course I would worry about and the swimmers bobbing up and down.
Sunrise: 5:39AM. This means the sun will be up and warming the air for a full 2 hours before you enter the water. NICE! This is welcomed news.
Parking: Remember, there is a free lot at 48th & Central. My advice is to get to Sea Isle early and park. I love my beach town, but this area is always a concern. When we go out to dinner, I am usuaully circling the block for 15-20 minutes. Keep in mind, if you think you will be finished the course in under 2 hours, or, if you have family cheering you on-- I would advise you to park at the meters. They are not "ON" until 10am and you can have your supporters feed the meter with quarters.
Packet Pick up: Get there early. VFW on Friday or Race Site on Saturday. We have 350+ preregistered and expect 20-30 walk up racers. The place will be hopping-- get there early!
My daughter Lila (AKA "Lulu") and I are headed down to Sea Isle tonight. Bike racks go in tomorrow, as well as the bathroom trailer. Race bag building party on Thursday night. Then Friday race fever kicks in (honestly, I already have it).
See you in Sea Isle City!
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Sunrise: 5:39AM. This means the sun will be up and warming the air for a full 2 hours before you enter the water. NICE! This is welcomed news.
Parking: Remember, there is a free lot at 48th & Central. My advice is to get to Sea Isle early and park. I love my beach town, but this area is always a concern. When we go out to dinner, I am usuaully circling the block for 15-20 minutes. Keep in mind, if you think you will be finished the course in under 2 hours, or, if you have family cheering you on-- I would advise you to park at the meters. They are not "ON" until 10am and you can have your supporters feed the meter with quarters.
Packet Pick up: Get there early. VFW on Friday or Race Site on Saturday. We have 350+ preregistered and expect 20-30 walk up racers. The place will be hopping-- get there early!
My daughter Lila (AKA "Lulu") and I are headed down to Sea Isle tonight. Bike racks go in tomorrow, as well as the bathroom trailer. Race bag building party on Thursday night. Then Friday race fever kicks in (honestly, I already have it).
See you in Sea Isle City!
.
.
Monday, May 19, 2008
Race Food
Just picked up your post-race snacks. 500 bags of Herr's Whole Grain Pretzels. It is a good thing I live a mere 11 miles from the factory. These things are awesome! Acme, Wawa, and 7-11 provided the water. The Ocean Drive provided fruit and I am finalizing a plan for Rita's Water Ice to provide finishers a tasty treat-- Italian Ice.
Also, Hammer Nutrition gave us a ton of gel packs, so you will have one in your race packet. Awesome company-- and great product too!
We are ready for you!
Sunday, May 18, 2008
EXHAUSTED...but good news
What a weekend. I do have a life, other than being the Race Director for Sea Isle's triathlon. On Saturday, my daughters had their end of the year lacrosse tournament. First game-- 8:30...arrive by 8am...45 minutes away. Yes, your math is correct, me and my ladies (3 under 9 and their Mom) were up at the crack of dawn and on the road by 7am.
5 games later, we exited...3 wins, 2 losses. My girls did so well-- they each netted 2 goals and Caroline played tremendous defense. Emma's allergies were gone and she lit up the field with her speed. I was very proud...
Then Lila and I headed right to the shore. Lots to do:
*Deliver 15 cases of water bottles, registration packets, and prize packs
*Ran 8 miles on the beach, swam for 10 minutes in the bay (with a wetsuit, it is not cold!)
*Checked on Iron Granny (my mom...it is her 1st tri) and she will be great next week
Then, the tough part.
A storm swept in last week and really beat up the beach. We lost a lot of sand, but the race will be fine due to the low tide. My Sunday was busy with the Sea Isle Beach Patrol-- great bunch of guys. We went through the swim course and everything was confirmed. Then the tough part-- I jumped on a Sea Doo with one of the Lieutenants to mark the swim course with my GPS and drop the bouys (anchors-- flags go in on Fri/Sat). A rain storm blew in just as we started. Bumpy, wet and cold...but we got the job done. I did manage to drop my GPS in the water, but leapt in and grabbed it (it was in a Ziplock bag). No harm, no foul.
Man, am I exhausted.
Team Daddy & Lila will head back down on Wednesday night. On Thursday, a bunch of friends will help build the racers' bags. I will also assist with building the racks and finalizing the transition area.
Almost home. Anytime I get tired nowadays, I simply think of the extended tours of duty our troops now endure in Iraq and Afghanistan--- then I feel fine. Afterall, I only have experienced one bad day in Sea Isle my entire life!
See you in Sea Isle City!
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.
5 games later, we exited...3 wins, 2 losses. My girls did so well-- they each netted 2 goals and Caroline played tremendous defense. Emma's allergies were gone and she lit up the field with her speed. I was very proud...
Then Lila and I headed right to the shore. Lots to do:
*Deliver 15 cases of water bottles, registration packets, and prize packs
*Ran 8 miles on the beach, swam for 10 minutes in the bay (with a wetsuit, it is not cold!)
*Checked on Iron Granny (my mom...it is her 1st tri) and she will be great next week
Then, the tough part.
A storm swept in last week and really beat up the beach. We lost a lot of sand, but the race will be fine due to the low tide. My Sunday was busy with the Sea Isle Beach Patrol-- great bunch of guys. We went through the swim course and everything was confirmed. Then the tough part-- I jumped on a Sea Doo with one of the Lieutenants to mark the swim course with my GPS and drop the bouys (anchors-- flags go in on Fri/Sat). A rain storm blew in just as we started. Bumpy, wet and cold...but we got the job done. I did manage to drop my GPS in the water, but leapt in and grabbed it (it was in a Ziplock bag). No harm, no foul.
Man, am I exhausted.
Team Daddy & Lila will head back down on Wednesday night. On Thursday, a bunch of friends will help build the racers' bags. I will also assist with building the racks and finalizing the transition area.
Almost home. Anytime I get tired nowadays, I simply think of the extended tours of duty our troops now endure in Iraq and Afghanistan--- then I feel fine. Afterall, I only have experienced one bad day in Sea Isle my entire life!
See you in Sea Isle City!
.
.
Saturday, May 17, 2008
Weather plays its part
Race day is one week away. The initial weather reports are coming in...drumroll...SUNNY AND 70!
So much planning has gone into this race, but you cannot order nice weather, especially not with my track record for making Sunday mass (give me a break-- I endured 16 years of Catholic school).
The water temperature continues to creep upward too. Current ocean temperature is 59 degrees. I am headed to Sea Isle this afternoon and will be swimming either today or tomorrow. Count on a 1st person report in the next 48 hours.
The water bottles were received today-- all 15 cases were shipped to my house (instead of the VFW in Sea Isle- YIKES). They are really sharp. T-shirts and beach bags arrive on Thursday morning and the race bags will be assembled on Thursday night. I have lured some friends into helping with some cold beers at the VFW. Let me know if you are thirsty!
Remember, if you still want to race, show up at the VFW in Sea Isle on Friday night and you will most likely get into the triathlon. Wait until race day and you are rolling the dice.
See you in Sea Isle City!
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