Tenby Tri - 21 August 2011

Report by Scott Patrick

To race or not to race? Is Try-a-tri the sacred preserve of rookies? Or is there room for all comers at all levels of conditioning and raw genetic blessing? It’s a fine line and not one i’ve considered much until a recent discussion with a fellow tri lover.  A deep and contentious issue of which I formerly wasn’t aware in my blissful ignorance. I selfishly want the cherry on top, the raw pain and exhilaration of racing which rewards all those dark winter nights running clothed “Michelin Man” style, head torch blazing with the rain coming in like stair roads obscuring my vision. The payback for injury lows and miles travelled to obscure race locations at the crack of dawn. Not to mention the financial “investments” in kit/nutrition etc etc. The truth is I can fully openly accept being beaten... But only when I had nothing else to give.. Being slammed by Watson, Simons et al illustrates the huge gap between competence and elitism, though presents an opportunity to race with highly talented, top level athletes on an even footing.  A series of affordable races relatively on the doorstep over challenging routes have been a carrot for this donkey and i’ve relished the competition in my immediate grouping of ability. The resurgence of Astins, waiting for Paul Davies to whisk past me on the run (the time is coming!!), seeing old school mates shoe horned into lycra (does anybody look good in it??), high fives to Pembs Tri athletes on the run and of course the banter before and after (and sometimes during!!) these events provide a esprit de core which keeps the competitive fire alight and blazing.

Sunday’s race was short and sweet, a pool based 400m swim, hilly 16km ride and an undulating 5km run. The route whilst testing proved to be quick and safe a testament to the hard work of Jayne Richards and the organising team, though Jayne for what it’s worth I’d rather a 100m swim and 50km bike in future if all possible. Ta.

Having arrived late the first bit of bling was obvious before leaving the car park! Luke Watson and his rather lovely Blue Triad TT machine with Zipp hoops, shiny and sleek and looked swift without a revolution of those aero wheels. Luke mentioned that he was distraught at being smashed on the bike at the recent Neath mid week tri and consequently the piggy bank had been raided. The truth will tell on the 14/9/11 at Neath when Luke will be looking to make it a clean sweep of titles on the course and no doubt put in a “Cornish-esque” performance on the bike.

The race was in full swing on my arrival and in no time the manic panic of registration, bike prep etc ensued. A quick ribbing of Astins and his new Cube followed (my envy levels now on overload) before I headed into an empty swim lane and wound up the Patrick style stroke. It’s not fast, pretty or particularly effective but as long as it gets me to the bike in one piece I can live with it. I was soon aware that Astins had entered my lane and was on a mission. When he did catch me and provide a firm tap to my feet  (my left plate is still bruised!)  I actually heard him cheer under the water! Words to the effect of “Have it!” resonated Blue whale style.  I’m not sure Ali Brownlee or Chrissie would approve of this race etiquette!  On exiting the pool my transition was below par, I felt like I had 12 fingers whilst trying to fasten my pointy lid and my race belt was spaghetti junction, a few precious seconds lost which I knew could be crucial later in the day.

The cycle was challenging in that it was a little short for my liking and had couple of cheeky lung burning climbs, one of which was the first mile of the race. I knew I had time to make up on Paul Davies as his running is going particularly well so was chuffed to see his white steed at approx 4 miles in with Paul’s unmistakable riding style. A relief, though no time for niceties, I dropped a Sram Red cog and tried to get as much tarmac between us as possible After a later descent of a tricky narrow and winding road I was soon back at the leisure centre. It would be remiss not to mention the excellent work of the marshals’ on the route, they ensured a clear and stress free bike leg, all I had to do was keep the pedals turning.

 After a quickish change in transition I was off on the main road shuffling towards Penally. I need to make one thing clear at this point. The run hurts. Lots. Whatever the distance I rarely enjoy any part of the run apart from the stopping of it. Paradoxically, it’s a good honest pain and stems from the stubborn notion that any seconds gained enroute will only be relinquished to a runner of greater talent or one with a deeper hurt locker than mine. Either way as Lance used to say “No favours!”.  The first lump of the run was a grinder though gave way to a level run along to the turn point.  The second half was up, up, up and a couple of distant targets took the sting out of tired legs. The sprint to finish was fast and hard and expended all remaining energy.  The finish line beckoned and the instantaneous relief from twanging muscle and burning lungs was welcome. The usual cry of “where have you been son?” came from my old school mate Johnny James. Davies and Astins were soon crossing the line and the usual mental back calculations whirred regarding respective swim start times and likely finishing results.

Post race dissections are par for the course and lessons are learnt from every outing. In answer to the original question.. I’ll race anytime I can.. Against any opposition. Some weeks I’ll perform, others I’ll get smashed. That’s what keeps me training hard and honest. See you all at Bala!

Results for Club members below (as usual email me at pembstri@sporty.co.uk if I have missed anyone.