The Olympic distance race includes a one-mile swim, a 26-mile bicycle course and concludes with a 6.2-mile run. The event is headquartered on the St Petersburg water front and held each April.
The Swimming Course
The westerly wind blowing for several days at 20 mph gusting higher created a swell approaching two feet by mid morning. The beginning of the course is partially protected by the beach and the approach to the St Petersburg Pier; however most of the course is open to choppy sea conditions. The swell pushed swimmers on the down wind leg until they rounded the eastern mark when the swell struck them broadside. A water temperature of 73 degrees required wet suits but was not an issue. Swimmers climbing up two sets of stairs over a sea wall to exit the water course were aided by event staff that was a welcome sight after the mile swim.
The Biking Course
The first quarter mile of the 26 mile course took place on a brick street that turned to asphalt as racers left Vinoy Park. The course continued along the water front with forays into downtown St Petersburg and south as far as Lake Maggorie then returned to the marina area ending where it began at Vinoy Park. The twenty-one turns of the course added a degree of difficulty requiring full attention during the race to prevent accidents. The last long straightaway ended with a sharp turn and competitors reaching speeds well over 20 mph. Race staff provided spotters to warn the racers of this difficult turn.
The Running Course
For most racers the 10k run took place under the hot sun and 84% humidity in high wind conditions that blew debris onto the course. Notwithstanding the mile swim in choppy conditions or the twenty-six mile bike course some of the racers found the run to be the most challenging part of the race and it showed on their faces as they crossed the finish line.
The Spectators of Course
Thousands of people many carrying signs, placards and the ever present cow bells descended on the beautiful downtown St Petersburg water front to cheer on their favorites. One couple was heard to remark they had hiked almost three miles in an attempt to be at various points on the course to cheer on family members. The design of the race course made it difficult to access many of the city parking facilities however most fans were able to park on the street and saunter through a series of water front parks to the main event area. Park benches made handy resting places and the waterfront views are second to none.
The St Anthony’s Triathlon marks the start of the Triathlon Pro Tour and is one of the best multisport venues in the country. The Olympic distance race brings world class athletes from 46 states and 18 countries. The top 50 professional athletes compete for a $65,000 prize purse. The two day event had 5,000 participants and over 10,000 spectators. Saint Anthony’s Hospital is part of the Baycare Health System in St Petersburg Florida.
Matt Maloy - Matt Maloy, writer, artist and photographer has been sailing small boats for nearly thirty years. Based in Largo Florida, he chronicles ...
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