Are you opening up the year at the WSMR Duathlon on Feb 8th? If so we've got your course information right here. This 5K/30K duathlon is a good early season test at one of our best and safest venues. Check the race calendar for details and sign up info. There will be race day registration lasting until 7:45am. The race begins at 8am sharp.

Run

This 5K trail run takes place in the desert north of the base buildings. Starting out adjacent to transition the run goes north 50 yards before jogging left then right to get to the trail. The desert trail is a mix of dirt, soft sand and gravel. the first 1K is slightly downhill then pitches slightly up to the turnaround where there will be a water station. Turn around and go back the way you came. The soft sand saps a bit of strength from the legs but the sections are generally short. Temps could be anywhere on the charts so be prepared for anything from snow to sleeveless jersey weather.

Bike

The 30K bike has used two different routes over the past few seasons. The out and back course begins with a 2 mile gradual downhill then goes left. After the turn the course heads straight east over some gentle rollers to turnaround. If the loop course is used expect the same starting few miles then a gradual flat to uphill to the 15K mark. After the 15K marker the course pitches downhill for about a mile before levelling out and starting to turn for home. If the wind kicks up (as it usually does in southern NM this time of year) the ride back toward the Organ Mountains can be brutal. Two seasons ago the top elites were grinding the trip back at 7 mph into a very stiff headwind. No major hills on this course.

The major setbacks on the WSMR course will probably be thorns........ride to the right, but get too close to the desert.......and kiss that tube (or tubular) goodbye. Slime, tire liners or kevlar belted tires are standard issue out here. Running a higher tire pressure can help shoot those goat heads out too before they sink in and slow down your day. If the day is particularly warm keep your eyes peeled for the occasional rattlesnake too...........last season's Yucca Duathlon had a mid course appearance from one of our friends that was none too happy to see a 100 or so athletes on his home turf.

After

The gang at WSMR will serve as always the traditional spaghetti breakfast to you as well as hand out awards and raffle off a mountain bike..........all good reasons to hang around and recover before the ride home.

Security

As always in these times......these races are held based on the current security levels on this active military post. If there is any cause for concern contact the staff at Bell Gym to check for any updates and as always.........have a valid drivers license, proof of insurance and vehicle registration to get on base.