The Edwards Aquathon was scheduled as a 1k swim adopted by a 5k run. Nonetheless, it passed off at 4:30 pm in August within the Mojave Desert, the place the temperature usually ranges between 100-110°F at the moment of day. Luckily, it was “solely” 100°F on race day, however this was because of the humidity and the specter of thunderstorms.
The race was delayed because of the thunderstorms. Ultimately, the organizers determined to start out with the run and see if the climate would clear up. Round 4:45, we started the run. If you recognize me, you recognize I don’t take pleasure in working in extraordinarily dry warmth. The shortage of humidity causes your sweat to evaporate earlier than it may cool you down. The extreme California solar and lack of shade made it really feel even hotter. Strava usually picks up the temperature from Santa Clarita, which isn’t at all times correct.
Aquathon Race:
The race began with a easy “go,” and off we went. Races on army bases are usually low-key, and this one had about 15 contributors. We had no clue if we might be capable of do the swim portion. I didn’t push too arduous and averaged about 7:45 per mile for the primary loop. I carried my water bottle stuffed with 2XDrip Drops, however my physique was cramping from the warmth.
On the finish of the run, the health supervisor introduced we may swim now. I, together with everybody else, thought the run course was quick and anticipated it to be a 2-mile run. I wasn’t complaining; it was sizzling. When he mentioned, “Now go swim,” I ran straight into the pool, shortly shedding my working garments. I had by no means been happier to leap into the water. I completed the run in third place and entered the pool in second place. I in all probability had the very best transition time of anybody as a result of I sprinted to the pool out of sheer pleasure.
My goggles stuffed with water all the time, doubtless attributable to loosening in my swim bag. I really like Kind Goggles, however they weren’t serving to me this time. I ended just a few occasions to regulate them and nonetheless managed to go the particular person in first place, gaining about 75 meters on them. I completed the swim in simply over 16 minutes. I requested the lifeguard if we have been executed, and he mentioned sure. I lingered, then requested if I may quiet down, and he mentioned sure once more. Nonetheless, he ended up radioing the pinnacle lifeguard and came upon we had one other lap to go.
By that point, the second-place particular person had gotten out of the pool and was heading in direction of the run. I shortly placed on my socks, sneakers, and garments (since working round a army base in a showering go well with wasn’t supreme). I used to be solely 5-10 seconds behind the first-place particular person, however I couldn’t catch up. I ended up working a 7:05 tempo for the second 2 miles, which I’m happy with.
I completed about 20 seconds behind the primary place. However I’m most happy with truly working at the moment of day. Will I run on daily basis at the moment now? No, however I’m proud to have executed it.
Aquathon Ideas:
Does this imply I’ll do a triathlon now? LOL, no. I’ve executed many Aquathons and I might do one other one if it was supplied. This was a enjoyable occasion and a enjoyable exercise.
You’ll be able to see Strava right here and extra race recaps right here.
Questions for you:
Have you ever executed an Aquathon?
What’s the hottest you’ve ever run?
