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| 2009 H2O Audio Surf Monkey: Race Report |
     
Who thinks of these things? Today's events are coordinated and hosted by some of the best in the business. You don't have to be a triathlon historian to know these folks: Roch Frey, Paul Huddle, Paula Newby-Fraser, Heather Fuhr and today's MC Greg Welch. When this group hosts an event you can guarantee it will bring out some of today's top triathlon and Olympic stars. In attendance were: Greg Bennett (Champion/Olympian), Luke Bell (Ironman Champion), Michellie Jones (Ironman World Champion/Olympian), Kate This morning I had a chance to catch up with some of these Southern California elites. Patrick Baldwin was taking part in the relay. "I am doing the run as part of the relay. I am taking it easy having fun as I prepare for Kona." Andrew Block (owner of Beaker Concepts) added "I am doing 5k as a fun way to get the day started." Tatiana Vertiz had to offer "What a beautiful way to kick off my day. I get to hang out with some friends and watch some Olympians. A little inspiration from some of the Ironman Champions never hurt as I am entering my big training weeks for Kona." Kim McDonald said jokingly "I am here to beat Kate Major in the swim. She has been talking smack all week." While posted at her work station I asked (Ironman World Champion) Heather Fuhr to tell me about the event. "We are excited and we have doubled in size from last year. This is our second year. It is a low key and fun event for everyone. We have some great sponsors and tremendous talents out here today from age group athletes to the professional level. The athletes are not racing for money but for fun and spirit."
The first event was the 5k beach run. A handful of athletes took their mark on the North side of Oceanside Pier. The horn sounded and they were off. Luke Bell did what he does very well, he ran fast to win the 5k. The second event is the 1 mile swim and 5k combo. Some athletes chose to suit up in a wetsuit while others braved the cool ocean waters with just a swimsuit. The surf met the athletes head on, giving an added sense of adventure. Rushing to the starting line about a minute late was Ironman Champion Kate Major. "I am running just a little behind today." She joked as she ran in the water to play catch up. Staggered a few minutes after the Swim/run group were the 1 mile swimmers. The waves did not let up for these athletes. With sets and waves reaching head high levels, it can play havoc on those unfamiliar with the surf entry dolphin dive technique.
In the expo area I asked Luke Bell how he was doing "I am doing well, I am preparing for Ironman Canada and the 70.3 World Championships. I will be going to Kona as a spectator this year. I am sure I will miss racing but it should be fun to watch." Also heading out to do Ironman Canada is Katya Meyers "Wow what beautiful day. This is such a fun way to loosen up. I am feeling good and I look forward to Canada." Looking happy I asked Michellie Jones how her Kona training was going "After last year, I just want to be healthy. My fitness will be in place and come October I will be ready to go." Another lady gearing up for the Ironman World Championship is Kate Major. You will be able to catch Fernanda Keller racing at Ironman Louisville in a few weeks. A sensational day topped off with some fun and friendly competition. The 2009 H2O Audio Surf Monkey proved in its second year of existence that Huddle and Frey's events are exciting and top notch. Come on out and join these legends of Ironman next year when they host their 2010 events. Remember as a participant to always thank the race directors and volunteers, as we can't have events like this without them. Follow some of your favorite races on: (Twitter) http://twitter.com/triraceday
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| Last Updated ( Monday, 17 August 2009 09:46 ) |
In the world of endurance sports, one usually thinks of highly competitive events such as the marathon and triathlon where participants range from amateur to pro; many of whom are vying for their personal claim amongst the best. But then comes along the Surf Monkey. What is the Surf Monkey? The Surf Monkey is a collection of some totally hip, funky and fun endurance events. The appeal of these events is easy to understand; they are fun!
Major (Ironman Champion), Katya Meyers, Fernanda Keller (Ironman Champion) and Olympic Gold Medal Swimmer in the 2004 and 2008 Olympics Natalie Coughlin.
Today's events took place, for its second year, in Oceanside, California. Participants showed up early to get registered and to ready themselves for the events. Greeted with grey skies and some nice surf, the athletes were in store for a fun filled morning.
As the paddle boarders headed out past the surf line the sun came out. While out on their 4 or 8 mile paddling trek, most of the swimmers and runners had finished. The participants who finished came together where they first started their day, in the expo and registration area. Greg Welch announced the day's winners by age group and event.| | . | . | . |