Mary K.  8/19/09

The Chilly Cheeks series is comprised of three races - one in December, one in January, and the last one in February.

The races are conducted no matter the weather. If you check out the website, you'll see pictures of people biking in a foot of snow. I did the series in 2008/2009, and we had no snow this year. A couple of patches of ice (well-marked by the race organizers). Lots of sunshine.

The race is small - usually less than 200 people - and the participants are intense. I showed up for the first race and was stunned to see people warming up on bike trainers. Everyone looked very fit and serious. However, as I set up my bike in transition, everyone was very chatty and welcoming.

The fun part is that each race is slightly different. In Dec 2008, the race was run first, then bike. In Jan 2009, it was .5 mile run on paths and roadways in the park, then bike the 3.6-mile paved loop. Next, a 2.5 mile run, then bike for 2 laps of the 3.6 mile loop. Finally, a run of 50 meters to the finish line. The last race in February was bike first, then run.

The food after the race is good - hot soup and hot chocolate as well as muffins and cookies. We received some very nice maroon sweat pants.

I'm really hoping that this year I get a chance to use the studded snow tires I bought for the bike!