Most Eclipse triathletes, like minded in their goal to race and then kick back for some fun in the great South West, made a weekend of the Meelup race, arriving in Dunsborough Friday night. The meander back to Perth began on Sunday afternoon after a light run, leisurely breakfast, and Yallingup coffees all round (a ‘must do’ when visiting Dunsborough). This is a race report, so on to matters triathlon related… After an early morning brick session on Saturday and a substantial brekkie, we rode out to Meelup Beach, to be greeted by less than ideal conditions; wind buffeted the side of the bike on the descent into the bay area (this was also the downhill stretch of the bike course) and made for choppy ocean conditions with huge waves (that get progressively bigger in the retelling!). As is the way, the poor swim conditions kept up for the enticer race, eased slightly for the pursuit, and had totally abated by race end, creating perfect conditions for post-race ice treatment…the glacial-like waters of Meelup Beach are no exaggeration and it was a blessing that wetsuits were allowed. The ride leg was technical and challenging; a three-lap combination of hills and flats that kept everybody working hard. The run was hot and comprised a similar mix of hills and flats. By the second lap of the run, the slightest of inclines began to feel steep, especially the last one that was just metres before the finish line. Eclipse competitors raced hard and well (see below for results). A special mention goes to Max who courageously conquered the surf and went on to complete her inaugural triathlon. Post race chatter revealed the typical array of glitches: goggles ripped off by waves and fellow competitors, hills, waves, Stuart vomiting whilst riding (but still managing to place 3rd), hills, waves, Gatorade ingested through nose instead of mouth, hills, waves... Many thanks to Delia and Peter who were so welcoming when their house was descended en mass for the weekend; for the mountains of food that they cooked in their gallant attempts to satiate the appetites of hungry athletes; and for leading the Eclipse cheer squad. Bryce - 31:39 (3rd) |
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