First multisport race of 2012 … the Desert Classic Duathlon!
Last year I flatted on the bike and had to DNF. I had to get revenge on this course.
To top it off, Linsey Corbin was making an appearance. I was super excited to get to Fountain Hills to race. Madison, her Golden retriever, was spectating. I wouldn’t let her down.
This course presents its own unique challenges because it gets progressively hillier throughout the race. Pacing was key for run #1. The first run was fairly smooth with minimal rocks but it does weave throughout the desert and requires some agility to maintain speed. I went out a little slower than 10k pace and felt fairly comfortable getting into T1.
Run #1 – 23:29, 3.67 miles, 6:24 pace
The bike follows the rolling hills of McDowell Mountain Road. The last few miles of the bike course involve a steady 3-4 mile climb to the end of the park. I never rode inside the park, and this hill seemed to go on FOREVER. There were also quite a bit of turns in this section and after a while I lost track of where I was. I have no directional sense whatsoever. As expected, my bike fitness wasn’t up to par. I’ve focused most of my training towards running lately. I pushed hard, but lost quite a few spots on the bike. I knew I’d gain some back on the second run.
Bike – 1:28:15, 30.14 miles, 20.48 mph
One word for run #2 – OUCH! Tough, tough run. It was much more rocky and hilly than the first run. My legs were on fire on some of the hills. At times, I felt like I wasn’t even moving. I made several passes though, so I knew my competitors were suffering out there as well. The last hill before the final descent to the finish line almost put me over the edge. I stayed motivated and “shuffled” up the hill, knowing I could gain my speed back and finish strong along the final stretch.
Run #2 – 29:03, 3.86 miles, 7:32 pace
Total time: 2:21:37, 2nd AG
As soon as I finished, Linsey came over, congratulated me, and gave me a hug. We caught up on the latest triathlon fads as she sipped on her chocolate milk.
I also got to meet Madison. She liked me.
It was a great Saturday in the Arizona Desert.
Perfect weather + Perfect temps + Linsey Corbin & Madison = A perfect day
Elliot Kawaoka 
Linsey’s hat is really cool — plus is Razorback colors so her husband probably likes it too.