The Big Comeback

Ironman 70.3 Boulder will be held on Aug. 8, 2010 at the Boulder Reservoir. The race, the first-ever Ironman 70.3 in the region, will bring spectacular views of the Rocky Mountains, a challenging course, solid competition and strong volunteer support. Ironman 70.3 Boulder will serve as one of more than 35 worldwide qualifying events for next year's Foster Grant Ironman World Championship 70.3 in Clearwater, Fla. Registration for next year's Ironman 70.3 Boulder, along with the Boulder Peak and 5430 Sprint triathlons open at 12 noon on October 1, 2009.

Previously known as the 5430 Long Course Triathlon (the name is derived from the altitude of Boulder) and one of the anchor events in the 5430 event series, the event is renowned for it's beautiful course and incredible volunteer support. In 2008 the race was won by Foster Grant Ironman 70.3 World Champion Joanna Zeiger and Simon Thompson, while this year's winners were Tim O'Donnell and Julie Dibens.

With 50 qualifying spots for Clearwater (five pro, 45 age group), Ironman 70.3 Boulder will offer a $30,000 prize purse.

The day will begin with a one lap in the Boulder Reservoir. That will be followed by a 56-mile bike ride scenic, and challenging, bike ride. Athletes will round out the day with two loop run course around the reservoir.

Registration for next year's Ironman 70.3 Boulder, along with the Boulder Peak and 5430 Sprint triathlons open at 12 noon on October 1, 2009.

IM Jewelry

I gotta be honest - I am thinking about it. I watched the Tour and saw Lance and several of the boys wear something like this. It actually looked pretty cool. I am not one for jewelry unless of course I am buying it for Suzy but this could be part of my next look.

Branson

For my friends back in STL...while I will be signing up for the Boulder Triathlon series next year, I did find a race a little closer to home for you guys --> Ironman 70.3 Branson will be the latest addition to the Ironman 70.3 Event Series. On September 19, 2010, the inaugural race will take place in the vacation destination of Branson, Missouri. Is Branson really a vacaton destination? If so then I don't want to go on vacation! Ironman 70.3 Branson will serve as one of 34 worldwide qualifying events for the 2010 Foster Grant Ironman World Championship 70.3 in Clearwater, Fla. Professional athletes like Tommy Rosenthal will be competing for a $25,000 prize purse.

Platte River - Back In The Game

Well, I am back - sort of. I took a Bill Cragg like approach by not training at all and decided to jump right into the Platte River half marathon this morning. I logged a 1:55:30 which is not too shaby considering that my mileage leading up to this event consisted of a 6 mile run three weeks ago. Springlike conditions in the rockies had morning temps in the low 20s. The anticipated blizzard missed the Denver metro but provided icy temps at the start. Didn't matter though as I blazed out to 8:30 miles. You do the math but you will quickly see that I did not keep that pace. Oh well. I got in under two hours which was my goal. Next up for me is the Bolder Boulder followed by another half marathon in June from Copper Mountain to Frisco. It is still to early to claim that the kid is back but I am heading in the right direction.

Altitude Attitude

51 Days until the Boulder Bolder. The countdown for this awesome Memorial Day event is underway. 50,000 participants will run the 10k to prove that Sea Level Is For Sissies!!! The race garb looks pretty cool. That's right, Pep will have his Boston swag but it will pale in comparison to the Altitude Attitude gear from the Boulder Bolder. The women's field promises to get a little more competitive this year as Suzy is eyeing up this race as her first ever 10k. Click Here for more information.

Mike & Tommy

Just how long is it going to take before Pepper & Rosenthal resort to this ridiculous garb? I know, I know, the compressive action speeds bloodflow back to the heart and allows Tommy to shave one second off of his Ironman time but someone needs to tell him that this is not a good look. Bill Cragg will admit that the benefits that this tech wear provides in terms of aiding muscle recovery don't even come close to outweighing how silly these guys look in this stuff. The increased performance isn't worth it fellas. Vic - please tell the boys to find different training outfits for this race season.

Boston Preview

With the Boston Marathon just a few short weeks away we decided that it was time to profile our very own Michael Pepper who will be competing in this prestigious event. Rumours still abound that Mike gained entry via a sponsorship exemption (his company does work with the official carpet sponsor) as opposed to qualifying time but either way this Tri Bull will be headed to beantown for a 26.2 mile jaunt. I look for this triple keystoning retailer to have a good run. His ability to analyze the carb to protein ratio of every energy drink in the market is uncanny and ensures that he will be well hydrated for the race. The guy has not had a piece of cheese in 10 years so he will not be slowed down by any dairy product. He is in great shape going into Boston and will perform well if he follows Coach Elf's plan. His explosive power promises not to disappoint the talent rich field in Boston. Good luck Pep and don't spend over $5,000 buying Boston Marathon garb so that everyone walking down the street knows that you did the race.