Malibu Tri

Once again, the Malibu Tri turned out to be an absolutely amazing event. Triathlon, sun, and celebrities–what’s not to love? Best of all, over $1 Million dollars was raised for the LA Children’s Hospital!

Pre race interview. . .obviously both of us were more interested in watching the spectacle going on as Teri Hatcher (and entourage) set up her Transition area. . .

2 weeks post out from Ironman, a fun sprint race was just what the doctor ordered. I usually find myself with a stomach tied in knots while awaiting the pro swim start, but the butterflies I would normally have regarding the big ocean swell and the fact that I was standing shoulder to shoulder with such incredible athletes–Laura Bennett, Chris McCormack, and Chris Lieto, to name a few–were no match for the comedic relief brought by our race starter, David “the Hoff” Hasselhoff. I’m not sure that he actually intended to be funny, but how am I supposed to keep a straight face when I have the car video playing in my head?

We started with some of the age group guys, so I caught a few elbows at the start, but otherwise, the swim was pretty uneventful. Lots of spectator support at transition meant that there were many eyes to witness one of my least suave T1s of all time. . .let’s just say it’s a good thing that I don’t have aspirations of moving on to ITU racing anytime soon!

I literally had not been on my TT bike since IM Canada, so I was pleasantly surprised with how good I felt. I guess riding a bike IS just like. . . nevermind, that was lame.

The run also went smoothly. The legs were still feeling a bit Ironman-y and didn’t have that final gear. But, that was fine because as soon as I hit the turn around, I confirmed that there was really no need. Laura was easily half a mile up the road running like a gazelle (a chipper smiling one, at that), and I didn’t seem to have anyone chasing me down.

I finished in 2nd, which was great, but the real race highlight was the post race pic with starts of my two favorite TV shows past and current–Saved by the Bell and Entourage (sorry, Andy–its not you, I just don’t do the reality TV thing)

Note how Piven and I are both rocking the black headbands. I think Lloyd would approve.