It was a great day for racing on Belle Isle. The sun was out, the winds were light, even the river was pretty nice. I was in the first wave of the day, and made it out of the water in 30 minutes. The water was clear and 69 degrees. The current was a little tricky for a first timer. I have even more respect for the salmon after swimming up stream. The bike course was mostly flat and unlike most Michigan's rodes, it was smooth. The Olympic distance made four laps around the island for a total of 23 miles. I felt pretty comfortable on the bike and was able to average 20.6 mph. The bike course became some what crowded with all 600 athletes from the Olympic and sprint race and all the other people enjoying the day. After T2, it was on to the run. I tried to maintain a steady pace, and worked on keeping the Gatorade, water and gels on the inside. It was a slow and steady 6.6 mile run to the finish line. I was able to finish with a PR of 2:47. It was good enough for 5th in the big kids division. Sorry, no trophy this time. The motor city tri was a well put on race. The course was great even the river was better than expected. There were many first timers and elite athletes in both the sprint and Olympic distance. I would also like to thank my wife for all her support and cheering.
