A great cause, passionate organizers, community support, challenging course and fun atmosphere all contribute to the Dutchman’s Dash in Chaffee, MO being one of my favorite events of the year. In its sixth year, the Dutchman’s Dash has raised over $50,000 for The Alzheimer’s Association. With family matriarchs affected by this disease, Blaine and Morgan
Tag: Cycling
2019 was my third Iron Abe Olympic Triathlon (now Abe’s Olympic Triathlon) in Springfield, IL. During the pre-race meeting, director Steve O’Connor described the course as undulating. He was talking specifically about the bike portion of the race. I knew from previous years there were rolling hills and gradual elevation changes, but nothing very steep
This morning I rode my bike for the first time this spring. My friend John rides about 25 miles on mornings when the pavement is dry and the temperatures are above 50 F. While I have had an active winter, I’ve only been on my bike a couple times in the past five months. I
To the countless volunteers who have made it possible for us to compete in running, cycling, swimming and multi-sport races this season, the caffeinated athlete extends a heartfelt “Thank you”. A Volunteer’s Work It’s no small feat to gather, guide and direct the legions of volunteers each event requires. Starters, timers, judges, course marshals,
Plan B can be a beautiful thing. I signed up for races on three successive weekends in September this year. I knew what I was doing, so I’m not complaining. Questioning my critical thinking skills a bit, but not complaining. Trail of Tears sprint triathlon followed by City of Roses Half Marathon then finish with
My friend Trevor Spencer over at Marathon Training Academy turned me on to a really nice set of trails in a state park and conservation area near my home. I had never run the General Watkins trails for several reasons. I don’t run trails very often. I like finishing a run near a shower. The
The Dutchman’s Dash has all the elements of a great event; impassioned organizers, a worthy cause, universal appeal, community support, and a fun atmosphere. Blaine and Morgan Swinford are the driving force behind the Dutchman’s Dash. They are both very quick to acknowledge and thank the host of volunteers who make the event possible. The
Tri Harder Promotions did a great job of providing multi sport athletes of all levels the opportunity to compete in central Illinois. Three races shared the same venue on July 28 with staggered start times. The Stoneman Sprint, Iron Abe Olympic and Route 66 Half Distance races started at Lake Springfield with each distance course
Race days are a bit of a crap shoot. You sign up weeks or months in advance with no idea what the quality of your training, the condition of your health or the potential for foul weather will be. And then you train, you eat well, you nurse injuries and take care of your body.
There is a line in all those waivers we sign that mentions using your likeness in promotional materials. I never thought much about it until I saw my picture on the flyer for the Trail of Tears Triathlon in Cape Girardeau. While it is flattering and a bit exciting, it is also humbling. The camera
