It's not many sports that give you the access to the Pros and the Top Athletes the way the sport of Triathlon does. We sure are lucky to be in this amazing sport of approachable people with really fun personalities -- most of whom are really laid back too.
I had the pleasure of watching the top in the sport perform at the ITU Nationals in Long Beach on Sunday. The event, second of five races of the Haul to the Great Wall Series, serves as a 2008 Olympic Trials qualifier. The magnificent Hunter Kemper and Sarah Haskins took the top spots. (It is Hunter's 6th Nationals title).
The day after the Long Beach race, the LA Tri Club had their second meeting of the year. Gracing the stage were Hunter himself, as well as the venerable Barb Lindquist. Not only were the 300 clubbers (not to mention myself!) able to look forward to hearing from these two OLYMPIANS, but sitting in the audience were 15 more elite and Olympic athletes, including: Victor Plata, Laura Bennett, Andy Potts, Matt Reed, Julie Swail, Joe Umphenour, Beckey Lavelle, Sarah Haskins, Sara McClarty, Jasmine Oeinck and Erika Aklufi.
Hunter Kemper.... just a few words on him... WHAT A GUY!! I'm a HUGE fan. I spoke to him after his win in Long Beach and laid some ground work for what he could expect at our meeting the next night. He was so genial, attentive, interested and humble. He's super approachable and really funny and a fun guy! He, and his wife Val, are expecting a baby in December. Congratulations to them... and, I have to wonder, will this baby have an Olympic future with parents like these two?
I can't imagine a better athlete and person to represent the U.S.A. in Beijing/2008. (pictured right: me with Hunter; below, left, Ian Murray and Erika Aklufi).
The contrast between Barb's training and outlook on racing and triathlon vs. Hunters were very funny to hear in parts. Barb is very meticulous and regimented and hearing her describe her pre-race routine had everyone wide-eyed. In case you're wondering... before a race... Barb wakes up about 3+ hours before start, swims/bikes/runs doing some speed work, practices transition, then eats, showers and lays back down for as much as an hour. Then, she heads to the start line, swims a bit more, then she's ready. That's just slightly more than most of us do, including Mr. Kemper. But, Barb is right about one thing -- practice makes perfect! Espcially in her case! (pictured right: Konrad Ribeiro with Barb).
So, after watching some of Triathlon's most talented... and listening to them... how can you help but be inspired? The LA Tri Club sure was lucky to snag Hunter & Barb for the meeting, and WOW... I can't remember being in any room with so much athletic talent as I was on Monday night. What a pleasure.
