Batavia Triathlon and Duathlon  

0
1329

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.

Previous articleStrides for Peace 2018 Start
Next articleMilwaukee Country Sole Half Marathon and 5K
Erika has been an endurance athlete for over 20 years. She fell in love with running in her 20’s in graduate school, working full time and being a single mother. Running became time for reflection. She has run over 30 marathons and countless triathlons; qualified for 70.3 World championships. To qualify for Kona is her next goal! She loves being a mom to a wonderful young lady and a fur puppy (cocker spaniel). Travel and exploring new places to train around the world is a passion. She is a licensed clinical counselor who specializes in the treatment of anxiety, depression and trauma. She spent 15 years in academia and has recently taken a role as a clinical director to focus on her clinical work. Erika believes in the therapeutic benefits of endurance training for people who struggle with mental health illness and stress. She is patiently waiting until we can all travel and race safely again, until then she recommends staying active, healthy. and consistent.

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here