ALL AROUND PR @ VINEMAN 70,.3 FOR SBTC
YES, we got EXCEPTIONALLY lucky on the weather this year. Instead of a grueling sunny 100 degree run, we were treated to fog cover that simply refused to dissipate until sometime after noon. Weather was at best in the low 70's with fresh crisp air to breathe.
So personally I only have one other 70.3 (Wildflower), but a handful of other tris to compare this one too. And despite its distance (LONG, so far as I am concerned), it is my favorite event. You begin with a most lovely swim in the Russian River (damned, negligible current), where you get to swim under and back a couple of bridges. The water seemed a balmy 75 degrees (which made a lovely warming effect getting in from the cool air), tho they measured the temp at the darkest, deepest spot to call it 70 and give us wet suit legal. This is the town of Guerneville, just northwest of Santa Rosa.
From Guerneville's swim, you proceed a fabulous point to point bike course, along rolling hills of endless wineries and vineyards, to the town of Windsor, home of T2 and the finish. Lee Carter once told me, the hardest part of Vineman for him was not stopping to taste at all the fabulous wineries along the way. The run is another rolling hill out and back thru vineyards, where there is a beautiful 1 mile turn around thru La Crema Winery. The smell of grapes seemed a far more tempting choice at that point than endurance Gatorade. The course is exceptionally well organized. And a fabulous post race meal (grilled chicken or veggie sandwiches, pasta salad, and fresh fruits).
Now, unless you are Andrew Maxwell (Dad Gary very impressive 5:25 Sunday), this is not a wise race to pick if you are podium-focused. In fact, one of my favorite things about Vineman 70.3 is how indeed humbling it is. (this year I had a PR beyond my wildest dreams, and came in 19th in my age group). The pro finish times ranged 3:49 to 4:48. The age groupers ranged 4:53 to 9:43. Our own awesome John Nelson, age 50-54 age group, kicked butt in 5:15. Unfortunately for him, thet top two guys in his age group were among those with the best overall times of 4:53 (!), but he still came in a healthy13th. Sandy Robers and Doug Black, training partners and first timers to 70.3, aka "I just want to finish and would really like to break 7 hours" finished in a smashing 5:49 and 6:14 respectively. It was also great to see both fabulous and smiling performances by other first timers Elda Rudd and Marie Schnyer. Peter Neilson PR'd by one hour. And Sara-I'm-too-cold-to-ride-Mandes came back in the run to do an amazing 1:34 1/2 marathon. We had a great representation from SB, and I apologize for not getting to know all of us, and hear all of your stories to share.
PS. If you are considering Vineman, I highly recommend making your reservations in December-January, and staying in the town of Guerneville. It is such a treat to get to walk 1 mile over to the race start in the morning. And there are several delicious restaurants within walking distance. Redwoods to hike in, if you are also so inclined. And too many wineries to choose from, including Korbel, just 1.5 miles down the road. Feel free to contact me for lodging and dining recommendations.
Andrea Stouffer