Team Member: Crystal Perkins

Race Name: Chattanooga Waterfront

Race Date: July 11, 2010

Race Placement/Time/Qualification: 2nd AG, 10th Amateur Female/ 2:30:27

Tell us about your race (limit 500 words)…: This was my first “A” race of the season. My school schedule was much less hectic over the past few weeks and allowed me to have a very solid block of training. I struggled at the beginning of the swim to get into a good rhythm and was shocked to come out of the water and see the number 22 on my Garmin. All of those tough pulling sets are paying off – Thanks Jennifer! The bike started out rough as I lost one of my drink bottles around mile 1. While I was fine on the bike, I definitely paid the price with dehydration on the run and post-race. My weakness on the bike in the past has been long steady climbs, so I knew this course would be a challenge. I tried to focus on maintaining a high cadence on climbs and not letting my HR fall on descents, and ultimately ended up with the 8th fastest amateur bike split. I’m always excited to starting running, yet this was the second race in a row that I’ve had less than stellar runs in the heat. I’ve never been so happy to see a finish line! I gave it all I had out there today and at the end of the day was very happy with my overall placement. I’m looking forward to a few lighter training weeks and then building towards Nationals in September!