At Flamme Rouge, and specifically for Billy, we’re all about celebrating the wild and wonderful world of triathlon. Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or just curious about diving in, here’s why we think this sport is a fantastic—adventure.
This is the report of Billy and friends experience from the recent Ironman 70.3 in Cascais Portugal in October 2024 after much preparation (i.e. buying a fast bike), but less than optimal training. The event has a 1.2 mile swim, 56 mile bike leg and 13.1 mile run to truly finish you off.
The Pre-Race
You arrive at a scenic resort 2 days before the event, ready to tackle your triathlon, and the first order of business is assembling your bike.
Bike assembly essentials
Building a bike in a car park can be quite the spectacle! Imagine assembling your ride amidst parked cars, dodging curious onlookers and keeping tools from rolling away. It’s a mix of concentration and chaos, as you navigate the challenge of fitting parts together while ensuring you don’t accidentally bump into a passing pedestrian. The open space provides a unique backdrop, turning a routine task into a mini-adventure, complete with the occasional laughter from fellow cyclists witnessing the “car park assembly challenge.” It’s all part of the fun of triathlon culture!
But wait—what bike are you riding?
If you want to make a splash on race day, we highly recommend the Trek Madone for the rolling courses. Known for its aerodynamic design and lightweight frame, this beauty will have you flying past competitors as if they’re standing still.
Once the bike is assembled and ready to roll, it’s time for a casual 10-mile ride, which is basically an excuse for some serious carb-loading. Yes, pizza and beer are involved—fuel for champions!
The Swim: Organized Chaos
Fast forward to race day. You’re standing in a sea of 2,700 other competitors, all of whom look slightly more confident than you feel. As the gun goes off, it’s like diving into a blender—everyone’s splashing around like they’re auditioning for a water ballet. You find yourself gasping for air while trying to dodge flailing limbs. You emerge from the water, dazed and soggy, but ready(ish) for the next leg.
Transitioning Like a Pro
Next up is the transition, where you awkwardly juggle your gear like it’s a game of hot potato. The goal? Get on your bike without looking like you just fell out of a wrestling match.
The Bike: The Fun Part
Once you’ve made it through transition, you hop on your trusty steed, the Trek Madone, feeling like a pro as you hit the road. The bike’s advanced aerodynamics make it feel like you’re slicing through the wind, and before you know it, you’re zooming past other cyclists.
But hold on—those hills are no joke! You’re climbing like you’re training for Everest, dodging the occasional over-cautious cyclist who clearly forgot they were in a race. As you power through, you can’t help but appreciate how the Madone’s lightweight frame is making this uphill battle a bit more bearable.
The Run: A Test of Willpower
Then comes the run, where you finally hit your stride (or at least a respectable shuffle). The best part? Seeing your friends and family cheering you on like you’re a rock star. Their enthusiasm is infectious, and you might even find yourself picking up the pace—until the next hill hits. But you power through, knowing that there’s a finish line waiting, along with a medal and probably a nice cold drink.
As you approach the end of the run, the cheers from the crowd become louder, and you dig deep to finish strong. You cross the finish line, feeling a mix of exhaustion and exhilaration—truly the culmination of all your hard work and training.
Celebrating the Madness
After crossing the finish line, it’s time to celebrate your achievements. The post-race food is surprisingly good, and yes, there’s beer on tap! You gather with fellow competitors to swap stories of triumph and disaster, laughing about the race-day chaos and remembering that time someone accidentally dove into the wrong wave.
Why Triathlon Rocks
So, what makes triathlon so great? It’s the perfect mix of swimming, cycling, and running—like a fitness buffet! Plus, it builds a sense of community that’s hard to beat. You bond with fellow athletes over the shared hilarity of race day, from the epic fails to the unexpected triumphs.
Triathlons challenge you to set personal goals and push your limits, all while reminding you that it’s okay to laugh at yourself. Whether you’re just starting or you’re a seasoned pro, there’s a place for you in this crazy sport.
And let’s not forget the gear! Having the right equipment can make all the difference in your performance. The **Trek Madone**, for example, combines speed and comfort, allowing you to conquer the bike leg with style and ease. Its innovative technology helps you focus on your race strategy instead of battling with your bike. Plus, it’s just plain fun to ride!
Join the Fun
At our bike shop, we’re passionate about helping you gear up for your triathlon journey. Whether you need a new bike, some gear advice, or just someone to share a post-race beer with, we’ve got you covered. If you’re ready to take your racing to the next level, swing by and check out the Trek Madone. It might just be the secret weapon you didn’t know you needed.
Locally in the Bedford area we are also priveledged to have multiple clubs who can help you out.
The Bedford Harriers mult-sport club on our doorstep. They’ve been described as “a running club with a tri problem” so are a great place to start your first steps into Triathlon.
If swimming is your in your comfort zone and where you want to start your triathlon journey there’s no better place than with Ed at Swimclear Coaching
So, are you ready to dive into the adventure of a lifetime? Let’s make some memories on race day—preferably with a lot of laughter and maybe a little less flailing! 🏅🚴♂️
