This weekend brought challenging weather conditions for racing across the Chicagoland area.
Batavia is 40 miles southwest from Chicago in Dupage county. This was the 15th anniversary for the Batavia Triathlon and Duathlon, and late Saturday we received an email from race director, Joe LoPresto stating that due to the storms, the re-paving of Main Street was not completed and announced an alternative bike course cutting the distance from a 14.7 miles to 5.23 miles. I know a lot of people were disappointed.
Heavy rain and gusty winds continued on Sunday morning, and the race director communicated that they were monitoring the weather. There was a delayed start, but by 7:40 a.m., the race finally got started.
The 400-meter swim was done in the quarry, and it was not surprising that some portions of it were very shallow and some people were walking. Due to the last minute changes, the bike course was significantly shorter with two challenging hills right out of the gate. The rest was flat and speedy with a 180° at the turn around. The run takes place on the bike path along the river for the first three miles or so, then there was a detour through downtown and over a few bridges crossing the river.
Racing triathlon comes with many challenges, which I absolutely love, and many times things don’t go as plan; it comes with the territory.
On Sunday, I decided not to race. My mind was not in it and I didn’t feel confident to bike in the rain with severe thunderstorms. So instead I watched from the sidelines. It’s always motivating and inspiring to watch people power through inclement weather and overcome obstacles. I want to send a huge congratulations to all who brave the day and finished the race. Thanks to the volunteers for being out there under the crazy weather.
Finally, a big shut out to Joe LoPresto and the City of Batavia for going above and beyond to have a safe race despite some big challenges this morning. He kept us informed of all last minute changes and updates by email. In the end the race went on under less than ideal circumstances. Several other races around the area were canceled due to the weather.
Congrats to the triathlon winners Kyle Kaiser 48:20 and Kristin McGuire 55:58. The duathlon winners Brian Samea 51:05 and Kayla Halsall 1:06:46.
