Are you ready to race at this month's Las Vegas Triathlon at Storrie Lake? If you've never raced here before, we'll attempt to get you up to speed on the lay of the land.

Swim

The 1500 meter swim in Storrie Lake is usually cold. Wetsuit cold. Although the lake level is fairly low this year, it is swimmable and 1500 meters will be no problem. The lower water level should make for somewhat warmer temperatures than normal. The course takes on a V shape leaving from a rocky shoreline, heading out to the turnaround bouy and then finishing at the boat launch ramp adjacent to transition. Last year (and I expect this year as well) the race volunteers will take your flip flops at the swim start and put them in a numbered bag to be picked up post race. You'll want to wear something to walk to the swim start.

                           Storrie Lake.........Low........But Still Cold

Bike

The 40K bike course is challenging. Leaving transition you'll head out on a mostly straight out and back course that starts out flat. The first 9 miles or so are flat to slightly rolling but things change quickly at mile 9. A 3 mile climb (roughly 6% grade) takes you up to the turnaround. After the turn you'll have the same course in reverse. Temperatures normally in the 90's are expected and winds could also be present. Bring enough fluids with you to stay hydrated for a challenging.....................

Run

Once safely back in T2 you'll head out on the last, and most challenging leg of the race. The run starts out toward the lake and downhill to flat for the first 2K. Once you've circled to the backside of the lake you'll face the biggest hill on the run course, a dirt monster that will be steeper than you'll want at this point. Once up the hill the run continues flat until a left turn that takes you up another small hill to the only turnaround on the course. Head back down the hill and take another left into a residential area with dirt and gravel roads. This loop winds its way around and back up another hill (with plenty of aid stations to keep you going) until you're almost back to the top of the infamous dirt hill. Down the dirt hill, another 2K of mostly flat road (thru the lakes campground.........complete with cheering fans) and you've got the small uphill to the finish line. Congratulations! You've just finished one of the most challenging courses in New Mexico.

Post Race

Lots of refreshments and great awards make this one worth sticking around for. If you've qualified for a spot at the USAT Age Group Nationals (top five in age group or top 33%....whichever is easier) you'll want to accept the congratulations from your mates. If you're competing as part of a club, hang around to find out who is the USAT Regional Club Champion.