This is what I think about Richmond...I love it. I have raced in Richmond twice and also did the Southeast Championship. Out of the two I would have to say Richmond is my favorite. The swim starts out in the James river right in down town which is very cool. Its a windy obstacle course even in the water. The river is loaded with rocks that you'll end up grabbing and pulling yourself forward on, then you do a zig-zag pattern back to shore which makes it very interesting. You even have to swim up-stream but most of the way back is easy. I have actually logged better swim times there before I even had swim lessons. After my last race I realize I slacked off a bit too much in my pool training. So what I have been doing these past few weeks is killing it in the water.
The Richmond bike course...hmmmm...it doesn't get any better. You'd better be on top of your game because it is one wild ride. What I really, really enjoy about the course is the urban element. Its pretty technical and is ridiculously anaerobic and all of the "real" mtb'ers will prevail. The stair cases in the middle of the trail trip me out. I usually train in the park near my house, running up and down stairs with my bike while people look at me like I am crazy.
The run...its great too, I like the stairs at the beginning and I can usually make some ground running up them while others walk. After that its crazy fast for those who can just let loose. It also has several long strait-aways that allow you to see how many people are in front of you. Lets just say, I cant wait!
My life...it may feel like a race, some may tell me to slow down and enjoy it... I say do everything, have no regrets, and live every day as it may be your last!
