dave k.'s profile

   

Typical IM series raca-- except on Saturday, not sunday to guarantee the turn out of the entire town to support the race with 4000 volunteers. Beware, however, the course has 9000 feet of climbing on the bike and 3000 on the run, with highly variable weather!

   

The relay is a bunch of fun once you get your team, your boat, and your entry secured. start early because it sells out--- check the olympic club website in jan/feb-- the registration is usually posted in mid february. the start is early and coordination is key-- staying at northshore is relatively easy- there are lots of places renting and if your team members and sig others are friendly share a place. Leave a car at the finish line (be careful to park in designated areas) and plan to bring food and picnic stuff unless you are on team that finishes quickly. the start is hilarious as a couple hundred boats mill around and a couple hundred of the lead swimmers search for their pilot and their boat. there are several race categories--- but typically this is done in 6 person teams-- but there is nothing preventing someone from swimming as a solo! by 1pm the wind is fierce (against) and by 1 30 the cutoff is reached. the relay is a blast and the process is very well explained at the "captains meeting" on friday night. GO FOR IT!

   

The adventurecorp century and double century is extremely well organized-- the double is limited to 300 people, with very good sag and aid stations. its a hard endeavor, but well run.

   

The SantaCruz Half/10k is a fantastic opportunity to see some worldclass scenery, meet some nice people and participate in anything 6 minute mile- 15 mnute mile or more. This very laid back race has a beautiful mid way loop out on the cliffs above the ocean on farm property which in my opinion is a highlight.----the trails and paths are wide and there is a beach finish. The organization is top notch with lots of supplies and encouragement out along the course. The winners are fast, and it was great to see them coming back into town because the course isnt overly crowded-- you get a great opportunity to meet/greet/run and watch!

   

This cycling event is not a race, and is a fundraiser to raise 1.75M$. the ride is well supported with rest stops every 15 miles. The ride starts at ATT park, goes across the GG bridge, through Sausalito, and over the mountain to Stinson Beach. Day 1 has 50,75,100 mile options. Day 2 begins in Santa Rosa with a 50 and 75 mile option. Hotels are easy to get and camping is available. Food is adaquate, and the vibe is great. Ride for a good cause!

   

This is the largest kids tri in the country and 2009 was the 10th anniversary of the race. over 300 volunteers support the race. The race has participants ranging in age from almost 4 to 14 years old. there is a division for "elite" athletes. This is a great family event, which fills up within 3 weeks of launching registration (early february) so sign up early!

   

The 25th anniversary of this race made it very special. the entire town turns out to cheer athletes on for the entire day! Light rain, cool temps, beautiful moon and lots of good friends made the day wonderful. the lake is pristine (well except for the hole in one debris 100 yards off shore and right on the course) and native maori entertainer warriors led a drum beat to begin the race. The course is a 2 loop course with one 8 mile hill. very doable in all regards. The run also two loops makes it great for spectators and participants alike. organization superb.