The Milkman

The Milkman triathlon takes place in Dexter, NM at Lake Van. Dexter is just southeast of Roswell, maybe 15 minutes from the center of town. One of New Mexico's premier short course races, the Milkman regularly hosts hundreds of athletes in a well run challenging event.

Swim

Been wanting to try your first open water swim but were a bit nervous? There is no better race to try it in than the Milkman. The 500 meter swim in Lake Van goes off in waves, meaning you're not likely to be trampled by those "go fast" triathletes that we all love so much (and wish we were one of!). Holding onto the dock racers get a 30 second countdown before heading out on the straight out and back swim course. Tired before the end of the swim? No problem.......just stand up. It will be hard to find water over 4 foot deep along the entire route. The water is cloudy and the bottom is kind of mucky but overall this is a fast, safe swim course.

Bike

Not much to say here. Run up the hill from the lake......grab your bike in transition and head out on a mostly flat course that traverses some rough pavement. The final mile before turnaround heads uphill and there is an aid station at the top. As with any desert event....be prepared for wind...although during summer the chances of high winds are small. Head back down the hill to T2, rack your bike and get ready to run.

Run

This one is pretty fun. Basically flat but on a mix of roads, gravel and trails, the run is challenging as the weather starts to heat up later in the morning. Aid stations abound on the 5K course that provides some shade on the trail portion. Leaving the trail you'll be on the far side of the lake with a great view on the finish line.......but you'll have a bit of work to do before you get there. The final meters of the run are across an open grassy field......the perfect setting for the finishers photos that the Milkman staff will take of you as you're announced "Ironman" style as you cross the finish line. Stick around for the award ceremony and enjoy the post race refreshments. Swim, Bike and Run fast enough and you'll be taking home one of the most unique awards in the series.........your own Milk Jug.