The last time I raced Alcatraz was in 2006. When I was planning my schedule this year, I was excited that the dates worked out for me to race it again.  Early in my career, I kind of avoided this race because everything I heard about it was a little out of my comfort zone…the cold waters, the sharks in the bay, the sand ladder…everything that makes this race so special was a little intimidating for me. Eventually I decided to race it for the first time in 2005.  I had an awesome time and won the race!  It is such a unique and beautiful course…I loved it!  It has definitely become one of my favorite races in the world to compete in. 

2005 brings back fond memories because after the race, my wife and I celebrated our second anniversary in Big Sur.  This year was also a special weekend for Val and I because it was a little getaway without our three-year-old son Davis, and our last trip together before baby #2 arrives in June!  We enjoyed a quiet dinner date overlooking the bay, an uninterrupted movie, and some enjoyable time to visit with friends.  IMG organizes a great race and takes care of the pros very well, which adds to an overall positive experience. 

Now on to race day…The morning began with an early ferry ride out to “The Rock.”  It was a beautiful clear morning and the view of the city was awesome!  The race began as we dove into 55-degree waters at 8am.  It’s a little shock to the system at first but my body was able to relax and get comfortable as we swam 1.5 miles in to Marina Green.  I exited the water in about 5th place; however there was a group of about 10 guys all coming out of the water together.  I was a little surprised that the longer and colder swim didn’t break things apart a little more.  After exiting the water, there is about a ¾ mile run to transition barefooted.  I didn’t remember this part of the race hurting in the past as much as it did this year.  I was the first out of transition onto the bike and we rode 18 miles through the streets of San Francisco.  Bevan Docherty got off his bike first and I was about 10-15 seconds behind.  It didn’t take long for me to catch him and then we ran together for the first 1K before I began to pull away.  The 8-mile run is fun as we run through some trails, on the beach, and up the ¼ mile infamous sand ladder.  With about 2 miles to go, I knew I had a good lead and I could coast into the finish. 

I had a very good day and was able to claim my 2nd Escape From Alcatraz Triathlon victory.  Due to injury last year, it has been while since I’ve been on the top of the podium.  It feels good to be back on top and racing healthy as I begin my 2010 season.  

May all your transitions be fast and smooth!

hk

View 2010 Escape from Alcatraz photos HERE