The Deal

Here is the deal. I think a lot of people don't know the different distances and names of races in the world of triathlons. Similarly, a great track runner could tell someone they are going to compete in the steeplechase and one might think, "Golly, this equestrian I am talking to must be an accomplished rider."

Someone asked me if I was doing a "mini-triathlon" this weekend. Mini? Kind of.

Names of races don't really correlate with distances to those that really don't compete. When I was raising money last year for Team In Training and competing in my first triathlon, an Olympic distance, people would say I was doing an Ironman. It is probably the first thing that comes to mind with the word triathlon, but the difference is a great distance.

On Sunday, I will compete in a half-Ironman, referred to as a long course or 70.3. It is a 1.2 mile swim, 56 mile bike, and 13.1 mile run. Total miles = 70.3. There are cut off time limits within each event and you have to finish the entire race within 8 hours.

Ready... Set... Wait? How far is this again?