TriRock Aurora

On Saturday Jeremy got to do something he's wanted to do for awhile, race a triathlon.  All summer he has been waking up at the crack of dawn to go swimming (gasp!), then still manages to go to work and run or bike later in the afternoon.  He has been training hard for this race and I have been so proud of him.  With Kelton's untimely arrival we were both afraid Jeremy would miss his race, but it actually worked out really well.  Bruce was in town and I sent him with Jeremy to be the photographer and keep me updated throughout the race.  Every half hour or so I would get a call telling me that Jeremy had completed the swim and still looked pretty good, that he made up a lot of time on the bike, and that he had just finished the run.  I couldn't wait for Jeremy to get all cleaned up and come back to the hospital to tell me all about the race.

Waiting for the race to begin.  He had to get their super early to make sure he could pick up his packet and get everything situated. 

Warming up and checking out the competition.

Heading to the start line.

When he did make it back, he was so excited.  He said that the swim was so much harder than he had expected.  The cold water had made it hard for him to get a good breath and he actually had to swim most of the race back stroke.  He was rather disappointed with his swim time and placement, but still really happy he didn't have to grab a lifeguard's kayak.  

His first transition area stop after the swim.

The bike was another story entirely.  Jeremy has powerful legs from years of soccer and mountain biking, and used them to his advantage.  He powered past nearly everybody on the uphills and his time ranked him 24th in his age division.  

Getting all suited up for the bike.  I think my husband looks hot in his bike helmet, just saying...

Powering up the hills.

By the time he came to the run he was still feeling pretty good.  He didn't want his legs to totally give out on him and ran the last leg conservatively.  But when he was within the last 100 meters or so he challenged the guy next to him to an all-out sprint to the finish line.  He said that was probably his favorite part of the whole race.  

His all-out sprint to the finish line.

My favorite part about this finish photo is that next to his triathlon participant bracelet he is still wearing his daddy bracelet from the hospital.  

Leesa and the girls made it in time to enjoy the post-race excitement and to give proud hugs to their daddy.  

While they waited for the transition area to open back up so that Jeremy could get his gear, they were able to play in the sand at the water's edge.  It looks like we need to plan a day-trip to Aurora Reservoir.  

I am so proud of Jeremy for doing this race.  He already has two others planned for this summer and I can't wait to see him compete.