Storm the Lake

The Storm Lake Hy-Noon Kiwanians outdid themselves this past weekend with their first annual sprint triathlon, Storm the Lake.

Although I have been participating in sprint triathlons for the past three years, this is the first year I have become seriously involved, spending a major chunk of change on equipment and race fees, as well as spending hundreds of hours training.

I have been part of some poorly-organized events this summer that involved volunteers attempting to mark participants with duplicate numbers during registration and inattentive corner marshals waiting until the last second to indicate which way to turn.

And, of course, the triathlon from hell that took place in northeastern Iowa this June, where a volunteer indicated a left turn should be taken, instead of going straight, which resulted in one angry triathlete being thrown off course and wiping out on a gravel road, but, luckily, the only casualties were a bike computer and wheel reflector.

While minimal, these types of things are make-it-or-break-it points when a participant decides whether or not to return for next year's race.

With the way last Saturday's triathlon went, participants will likely be coming in droves next year.

Out of the eight triathlons and duathlons I have done this year, Storm the Lake was, by far, the best-organized on one of the most scenic courses.

Buoys were plentiful and easy to spot during the swim and mats kept feet sand-free during the trek to transition one. During the bike and run legs, encouraging volunteers were well-placed along the course, and signage/corner marshals clearly indicated ahead of time where turns would occur.

After crossing the finish line, participants were immediately approached by two Kiwanians offering bananas, sports drinks and water---at most races, finishers wait in line for refreshments.

And, of course, it always helps to finish well. Despite competing with a torn hamstring, this was one of my personal best races to date, winning my age division and finishing fourth overall for female participants.

A big thank-you is in order for all of the Kiwanis volunteers, Storm Lake Police Department, Buena Vista County Sheriff's Office and numerous local sponsors who helped to make the triathlon an enjoyable experience.

See you next year!

* Ashley Miller is a member of the Pilot news staff. Reach the columnist at amiller@stormlakepilottribune.com