Wednesday, August 27, 2008

Lake Chaparral Olympic Triathlon: Calgary, Canada


In what turned out to be more like a day in a Caribbean island than in The Great White North, I ended up 2nd at the Lake Chaparral Triathlon in Calgary, Canada this past Sunday.


I had a below par swim and bike. The 5-lap bike course turned out to be quite crowded and even a little bit dangerous, and my decision to play it safe made me lose at least 2 minutes in the downhills and turns, especially when behind more novice athletes. I wanted to make sure I was not going to meet asphalt, so I was extra careful when around others.

My run was great, though, and in a course that was actually 11km I ended up with one of the fastest splits.

Overall, the race went well. Although the swim and bike were sub par for me, I had a great run and was able to make up the lost ground on the previous 2 legs. It surprised me that Calgary can be so hot and windy, it felt more like a race in the tropics.

I was quite pleased that my body did so well in the 92F ( 33C) heat, and it really let me know my preparation is on track to finish the season as strongly as I started it.
I am now preparing for the Callaway Gardens Triathlon ( where I spend 4 days earlier this summer training), and the the Weiss Lake Triathlon, which I won last year. I am hoping for both another win and to break my own course record.

My flight on the way back was delayed, so I stayed overnight in Chicago. It was not too bad, as it gave me a chance to see downtown Chicago. I ended up making it home after a long 24 hours of traveling, and with no bike ( it has since been delivered, and in one piece!)
Felipe Bastos

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