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 Factor 9 had a really strong showing at this years Desert Half Iron with Scott, Janelle, Jenny and Sam racing.

 pic: Me near the lead pack at end of lap 1.

Not sure the maple leaf nation and the word “desert” can be mentioned in the same breath but stranger things have happened.  Desert Half Ironman took place last Sunday.  It also happened to be the 2008 Canadian Long Course Championships.

Last year, we had major winds out on the bike course and it was pretty hot out on the run.  This year,  I would say we had almost perfect conditions.  There were some gusts out on the bike and it was a little warm but all in all it was a fairly average day in Osoyoo’s.

Factor 9 had a great day.  Top dog was Janelle who was the 2^nd overall female.  Jenny had another great day, taking home 1^st place in the 45-49 age group category.  Samuel also nailed the race and finished 2^nd in the 30-34 age group category.  So, big congrats to everyone!

I probably had my best half to date.  Once again, it is difficult to compare times but I would consider this bike course to be about 10 to 15minutes harder than a fast half Ironman course.   Hence my time would be a significant all time best and much faster than last year (although less windy).  I had a great swim, coming out with the front pack.  I really paced myself on the climbs and rollers and went mod-hard on the flats.  My legs felt great starting the run.  I probably went a little too fast the first 5km as the final 5km were a bit of a struggle.  Nonetheless, I was able to hold on for 15^th overall and 4^th in my age group.

Once again, Joe and Sarah Dixon put on a great race and we really enjoyed the course and venue! 

A little further southwest of Osoyoo’s was the Lake Steven’s 70.3 triathlon.  It also has one of the toughest bike courses around as demonstrated by Luke Bell’s 2:17.  Bill Thompson put it all together this day.  His swim has improved, he rocked the bike as usual and had a great run (a 1:31 and change)!  42^nd overall and 7^th in AG.