New - Featured Race

I'm going to test out a new thing on the blog. Aaron is the first victim, but I'll be contacting others who told me about their races. Comment on this post if you think this is something that you would like me to continue. If not, I won't continue it :)

This is Aaron's most memorable race. He responded to my questions. I added only a few notes, and they are designated with the italics.

Featured race and distance:
Woolsports Musselman 2011 - 70.3 Triathlon
Half ironman distance -1.2 mile swim, 56 mile bike, 13.1 mile run

Date:
17 July 2011

Location:
Geneva, NY

Best part:
Toss up between the residents hosing us down, the well stocked aid stations on the run course, and the ice bath at the finish line.

Worst part:
The heat and passing wineries without stopping in for a tasting.
It was a 95 degree and humid day!

Recap of your race:
Swam fast but between trying out my calf guards for the first time and not eating enough, the bike was a little slower than anticipated.  The run started off well but the heat caught up with me in the second half and my time goals were replaced with survival goals.  Nowhere near a PR but just finishing was a victory.

Everybody loves the Gerega Wave :)

Race tips:
- Swim fast, get out front and then cruise.  Drafters are posers and deserve to be kicked in the head :) Note - everyone drafts in the swim. Only silly people don't take advantage of it.
- Always have a backup goal in case the race doesn't go your way. Finishing vertical and healthy is always a good option.
- Carry a small flask or bottle of water on the run. You don't want to get thirsty in between aid stations.
- Practice running hills and running in the heat before attempting the Musselman.
- Eat something other than Jelly Belly energy beans.
- Sign up for the DoubleMussel so that you have an excuse if you don't PR at the Musselman.

Why should someone sign up for this race?
For a 70.3, the price is quite good and the event is very well run. I was faster at the Syracuse 70.3 and liked the bike a little better, but overall, the Musselman was a better total package.