Just some of the fluids Matt consumed on the race. This was supplemented by water, lemonade, or other opportunities to be found along the run.
Quick pause for a smile while getting ready.
Arrived at the start with barely 10 minutes to spare. Frantically getting the bikes ready to go!
The amount of gear needed for this even is crazy!
Time for a pre-race photo.
Common theme today: Matt munching on food.
The bikes are placed along the trail before the start.
Races getting ready to go.
Great views from Snoqualmie pass.
Soon these bad boys are going to be cruising down the mountain.
I'm glad Jodee took some shots up here because I barely had time to look around and appreciate where we were.
Bikes laying in waiting.
And the race starts. First everyone has to run about 1/2 mile or so to spread out the pack. The first couple of miles of the trail is through a pitch black tunnel, so speading everyone out is a must.
Hagen's getting on.
Matt jumping on his bike.
And off I go.
Switch from mountain bike to road bike means the first change of shoes. I'll be changing shoes 3 more times today (mtn bike shoes, road bike shoes, kayak water shoes, running shoes).
More eating.
Off I go on the road bike.
And off I go on the decent.
Better check for on coming relay racers flying out of the transition.
Nice break under the 116th Street bridge. This picture gives a great view of the true nature of this kayak. Notice my drink resting in the "beer holder". Also, the black thing bolted on to my front right is where the fishing pole holder goes. :-)
Consuming liquid was essential in 90 degree heat.
Let's get this thing straightened out!
Better get back at it.
The guy up in the top right-hand corner of this picture has the same kayak as me. These are definitely not race boats... really just a recreational get-up. We went roughly the same pace the whole way; I think I finished just a few yards before him.
Nice to draft off of others if/when possible.
