Polar Bear Preview
If you've seen the
application for the Polar Bear Triathlon next month you should note one
change. The application asks for your age as of December 31st, 2001.
This date should be Dec 31st 2003 so that your SWCS age is correct and
your points are accumulated in the proper age group. Different race
directors use either the Dec 31st or race day age to determine your age
for their event, however your SWCS age group will always be your age as
of Dec 31st of the current season year.
Another note: It was incorrectly reported on this website that the
Polar Bear starts at 8am........the race actually starts at 9am to take
advantage of the warm weather that TT/NM is expecting this year.......no
guarantees on that prediction.
You can register for the event by mail or on race day until 8:45 am. |
Course Description
If you're planning on opening your 2003 season (or closing your 2002)
at the Polar Bear.........we've got you covered. The race takes place at
White Sands Missile Range on Saturday, December 14th at 9 AM. Rain, shine,
snow.........whatever......the race goes on so make some plans to be there.
The Run
The Polar Bear starts with a 5K road run around the base buildings at
WSMR. The run is mostly flat with one or two small hills (depending on the
course) and is very quick. There is usually an aid station at the halfway
mark. Run into transition and grab your bike..........
Let's Get It On!
The Bike
A 30K out and back bike course awaits the 150 or more athletes that will
compete in this years Polar Bear. The course begins winding its way out of
the base buildings before heading out on a slight (4% or so) downhill that
lasts 2-3 miles (and feels great after a fast run). The balance of the
outbound course is flat to rolling hills. Wind could be a factor as well.
The past 3 years have had very temperate weather for the race (mid 50's or
better) but this is New Mexico........be prepared for anything. That 2-3
mile downhill turns to an uphill on the way back so save a bit of energy.
Being winter, the goat heads will be looking to snatch the air from your
tires so kevlar belts or liners are usually neccessary. Riding in transition
is permitted but with so many athletes be careful...........
The Swim
400K in the Bell Gymnasium pool. You'll go up and back in each 25 meter
lane before ducking under the lane line and doing it all over again. 8 laps
later.............you're done and can call yourself a winter triathlete! The
pool could be crowded so obey the rules...........stay right..........pass
left..........tap the toes of the swimmer in front if you need to
pass.........and watch out for a head on collision. It's usually not quite
that bad..............just be aware.
The Master Of Ceremonies....Flip Lyle
The Aftermath.
Grab a hot shower and change.......then come on over and enjoy a
spaghetti dinner (breakfast?) while Flip Lyle awards the 2002 SWCS season
awards and the winners of the Polar Bear. As an added attraction, we'll be
awarding the Transition Times/ New Mexico Powerman and Powerwoman awards
(1st annual) during your meal. If you get bitten by the tri bug.........the
folks at WSMR also host the 2003 opener, the White Sands Duathlon in
February.
Contact the staff at Bell Gym at 505-678-3374
for more info or to register for this awesome race.
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