CHASKA PREVIEW....

The 6th annual Chaska Triathlon will be staged at Fireman's Park (in downtown Chaska) on Saturday. You can still register.

An immensely talented 50-year-old--Brett Elizabeth Schulze-- was the women's overall champion here in '08. Don't be surprised if another cinco-genarian wins this year, too. Fourteen-time TT/AA All American Robin Tedlund, 50, of Duluth, will come in as one of the favorites.

On paper, there are two women, both masters, who could keep Robin off the top step of the podium. They are last year's 3rd place finisher Caroline Skaar-Page, 42, of Eden Prairie, and Ann Snuggerud, 41, of Chaska. Ann, a long-time runner who has dabbled in tris/dus in the past (she was 40th at the inaugural Chaska Tri in 2003 and has twice participated in the Iron Girl Duathlon), has become a serious multisportswoman this year. Her 2009 resume is impressive, especially her efforts at Timberman (6th) and Lake Minnetonka (5th).

Ann Snuggerud should win her first tri on Saturday.

A Chaska resident should take the men's crown, too. Nineteen-year-old MJet Nick Madrinich should lower the event's 19U course record, a 1:15:12 set by 2003 Chaska champ Alex Hooke, en route to the first win of his budding career. He should get a nice push from Chris Frykman, 32, of Minneapolis, Jim Felling, 30, of River Falls, WI and Matt Des Marais, 24, of St. Paul.

Approximately 300 triathletes will participate in this year's race.

HOLT PREVIEW...

24th Annual HEART OF THE LAKES TRIATHLON

HOLT artwork by

Jim Rataczak

(Brian Bich will be going for his 7th win at HOLT this Sunday. Photo courtesy of YndeCam.com.)

Who is the best amateur male triathlete in Minnesota this year?

Usually by mid-season, one or two guys have set themselves apart from their elite peers.

This year is different, and as a result, much more exciting and dramatic. There are four guys who appear to be a cut above the rest and it's virtually impossible to say at this point in time which is numero uno.

But this should change on Sunday.

For the first time this season, Brian Bich, Devon Palmer, Kevin O'Connor and Sam Hauck will meet on the same field of battle. That battlefield's venue will be Pleasant Lake City Park in the arcadian community of Annandale.

All but Hauck have raced against each other this year. Bich has faced Palmer once (Pigman Sprint) and come out on top. Bich has faced O'Connor twice. Kevin won the first meeting (Pigman Sprint), Brian the second (Lake Waconia). O'Connor has faced Palmer twice, winning once (Pigman Sprint), placing 2nd once (Manitou). Hauck has raced twice this season and been dominant on each occasion. His course-record-setting win against a stellar field and in spite of inhospitable conditions at RochesterFest was particularly notable.

Who, then, will win at Heart of the Lakes on Sunday?

Here are some arguments for and against each athlete.

Brian Bich.

For: The four-time Minnesota Triathlete of the Year has been HOLT's amateur champion for the last six years and outright winner on five of those occasions. He's fit and fast this year and his age--43--does not appear to be a factor. He is the reigning U.S. Master of the Year, after all.

Against: Devon Palmer, Sam Hauck and Kevin O'Connor. The 2009 versions of each of these athletes are stronger and faster than any versions he's faced in the past.

Kevin O'Connor.

For: Three wins and two 2nds in five starts, two course records and an intimidating balls-to-the-wall aggressiveness.

Against: Brian, Devon, Sam.

Sam Hauck.

For: The 2008 Most Improved award winner is faster this year. His cycling skills are much improved. He's hungry and his inner fire burns hot. Last year he went into races hoping to win. After his stunning victory at Turtleman last August, he now expects to win races. Fueling this attitude adjustment was his performance at the 2008 Dallas US Open, where he placed 4th behind the undisputed top 3 amateur men in the country (New York's David Kahn, Pennsylvanian Adam Webber, and Tennessee's Eric Bell) all of whom are now pros.

Against: Brian, Kevin, Devon.

Devon Palmer.

For: At Life Time Fitness last weekend, Devon convincingly beat the deepest amateur field of the season thus far. Not the deepest field assembled for a Minnesota race; nor the deepest field assembled for a race in our region. Nope. He beat the deepest field in the entire country. He out-raced Ohio's decorated Jared Woodford. He out-raced two-time U.S. Athlete of the Year nominee Mark Harms of Madison, WI. He out-raced HyVee champ Nathan White of Des Moines. He out-raced all (60+) of the elites.

Against: Consistency. He was in position to win at Pigman Sprint and HyVee, but didn't get it done. (After last Saturday, consistency may no longer be an issue for Devon. We'll see.) And Brian, Kevin and Sam.

Prediction?

On Sunday we'll see the most exciting men's race of the entire season. And the times will be very fast. There hasn't been a sub-1:30 on the HOLT course by an amateur since 2006 (Bich's 1:29:35 in very hot and humid conditions) and it has been eight years since more than one amateur--Rob Gilles and David Thompson--broke the elusive 90 minute mark. In '99, an unprecedented three triathletes--Tony Schiller, Doug Davis and Joe Fogarty--popped sub 1:30s. This year as many as eight men could accomplish this feat. In addition to the aforementioned four faves, let's toss veterans Curt Wood and Dan Cohen into the mix, as well as emerging stars Patrick Parish and Matthew Payne.

Who will win?

Brian or Devon or Kevin or Sam.

Clear women's favorite Cathy Yndestad will be going for her 3rd consecutive HOLT victory on Sunday. The amateur women's record--1:39:58--was set back in 1996 by Becky Lavelle. Cathy posted a 1:40:15, which is the 3rd fastest amateur women's time in the 23-year history of the race, last year. It's about time the record went down, and Cathy's just the girl to do it.

The women's elite roster is impressive, featuring the two fastest-rising new stars on the regional scene--Kortney Haag and Brook Mutzenberger--and three of the most talented 40-plussers in America--eight-time HOLT winner Jan Guenther, 50, '08 Minnesota Master of the Year Jeanne Fleck, 44, and winner of the Minneman two weeks ago Heidi Keller-Miler, 44. Others who can be expected to be competitive include Pam Nielsen and Shelley Nelson.

Some of the divisional records are in serious danger, especially the women's 50-54 and 55-59 categories. Jan Guenther, who already owns the 40-44W and 45-49W bests, WILL make mincemeat out of the 50-54 mark (1:55:39) that Pam Stevens has held since 2006. Expect it to be lowered by a full 8-10 minutes.

And Pam Stevens will bounce back by destroying her own 55-59W CR (2:00:10). Pam should knock it down by at least 2-3 minutes.

UPDATE: Two-time HOLT winner and pro CR holder (1:27:55) David Thompson has been added to the start list, as has elite amateur John Shelp.

Who are this year's short course favorites?

Veterans Tim Andrews and David Goldberg can be counted on to race at the front. Tim has won this event three of the last five years, and David is a perennial podium finisher. Let's also throw in talented teen Brandon Onopa, too. He was 5th last year.

The women's race promises to be exciting, with a half dozen women that can come out on top. Four girls to watch are Karen Bebchuk, April Morgan, Kelly McCann and Jody Quesnell. Quesnell has won the last two editions of HOLT SC. McCann was victorious here in 2006.

A STAR ON THE RISE...

Kortney Haag, Minnesota's 2008 Rookie of the Year proved on July 11 at Life Time Fitness Elite that she is ahead--way ahead!--of the learning curve. She placed 4th behind three girls--Cathy Yndestad, Lindsay Whalen and Mandy McLane--who are already being projected as 2009 USAT Athlete of the Year nominees. Almost as impressive was the roster of talented women who finished behind her, and in some cases, way behind her.

" I was really happy with my race on Saturday and am looking forward to HOLT this weekend," Kortney replied via e-mail. She described her experience on her blog:
http://kortneyhaag.blogspot.com/

(Kortney Haag was in 15th place after the swim. She went on to pass 11 of those girls en route to a brilliant 4th at Life Time Fitness Elite. Photo courtesy of YndeCam.com.)

GRANITEMAN CROWNS IMPORTED CHAMPIONS

(Diane Hankee podium-bound at Oakdale Du. File photo courtesy of Erik Hull.)

(Rockville, MN - July 12, 2009) Perfect weather (66-68 degrees, gentle breezes) greeted the record turnout (almost 500-members strong) at the 6th annual Graniteman. The men's race was won by transplanted Belgian triathlete Harold Doise and the women's by Lino Lakes-based Manitoban, Diane Hankee.

It was Hankee's 2nd victory of the season and each time she appeared to benefit from the absence of elite no-shows. At Cinco de Mayo Du last May, Marlo McGaver was the conspicuous absentee. At Graniteman, it was course-record holder Michelle Andres. In Hankee's defense, she raced brilliantly on each occasion and would have given the elsewhere favorites a serious run for their money.

Especially at Graniteman. Andres would to have been on her elite game, as Hankee went out and posted a 1:14, which was only a minute off the CR. Diane's bike split was particularly impressive, a 40:46 (22.1 mph), which is faster than any women in the history of this race has ridden.

In 2nd place for the girls was Sartell's affable Nikki Bergh, who turned in her best effort of the year. Unsurprisingly, Northfield's Brooke Larsen also reached the podium.

Doise's margin of victory over runner-up Jim Graif, was 53 seconds. Graif's 1:07:43 was impressive, too, as it proved to be 3:28 lowering the 45-49M CR. Race founder and co-director Bill Corcoran of Waite Park, finished 3rd in a personal best 1:08:46. He was 4th here in 2008.

Several Divisional Records were set on Graniteman VI's 1/3 mile, 15 mile, 5K course:

* 45-49M - Jim Graif's 1:07:43 (Old Record - 1:11:11, set in 2005)

* 60-64M - Ben Ewers' 1:13:04 (Old Record: 1:27:59, set in 2005)

* 40-44W - Heidi Robb's 1:19:24 (Old Record: 1:20:08, set in 2008)

* 45-49W - Margie Carr-Oxley's 1:21:23 (Old Record: 1:25:40, set in 2006)

* 55-59W - Jan Handlos' 1:28:49 (Old Record: 1:33:12, set in 2006)

It was an especially good day for Handlos. Not only did she set a course record, she won a Trek Mountain Bike in the post-race raffle.

Graniteman Results:

LIFE TIME IMAGES...

Rhett Bonner, 45, of Duluth (pictured below) is enjoying his best season since 2004. Already he has won the overall masters titles at Liberty Olympic (masters record), Ironman 70.3 Buffalo Springs Lake and, most recently, Life Time Fitness (45-49M record). Cathy Yndestad, 30, of Apple Valley (Right) won this American classic for the FOURTH straight year. In doing so, she out-raced the seemingly invincible--at Olympic distance, that is--Lindsay Whalen of Chicago. Expect both Cathy and Lindsay to receive serious consideration for 2009 USAT Athlete of the Year. (Photos courtesy of YndeCam.com)

THE 2009 "RACE TO THE TOYOTA CUP" IS UNDERWAY!

Where were you at 8:49 on Saturday? If you weren't at Lake Nokomis in Minneapolis, this is some of what you missed. Tri-superstars Matt Reed and Andy Potts (foreground) and two-time Toyota Cup National Champ Greg Bennett (a few seconds back in the shadows) going wire-to-wire in a thrilling demonstration of why they are arguably the three best non-drafting Olympic distance triathleteS in the world. Reed's margin of victory was less than 2/10s of a second.

And the excitement did not stop here. Scroll down for more coverage of the 8th annual Life Time Fitness Triathlon. (Photo courtesy of YndeCam.com)

LANDGRAFF WINS AGAIN...

(Elysian, MN - July 11, 2009) Approximately 300 athletes participated in the 26th annual Elysian Triathlon on Saturday. The men's podium was filled by two of Minnesota's most prolific racers--North Mankato's Todd Landgraff (1st) and Red Wing's Jesse Nelson (2nd)--and Minneapolis' Tom Morgan (3rd), whose wife April finished 2nd in the women's race behind Stacy Dees of Western Springs, IL. Nineteen-year-old Iowan Grace Moore took 3rd.

The win was Landgraff's second of the season. He was also victorious at North Mankato on June 28.

Elysian Results:

A SWEET TIME AT SUGAR LAKE FOR COHEN

(Sugar Lake, the site of the Timberman Triathlon, is a little slice of heaven on earth.)

(Cohasset, MN - July 11, 2009) Emerging from early season doldrums, Eden Prairie's Dan Cohen is starting to race like his old self. Encouraged by his recent win at Croixathlon, Dan returned to Timberman hoping to defend his 2008 title.

He did just that. And in authoritative fashion.

Likewise, Duluth's Marlo McGaver made it look easy in the women's race. Marlo was originally scheduled to race at Life Time Fitness. To the chagrin of fellow Duluthian Angel Hohenstein and Hopkin's Lydia Novatny, the ladies who appeared destined for a 1-2 finish (in either order), she decided to race at little closer to home. Instead they--Angel and Lydia--duked-it-out for 2nd and 3rd.

For McGaver, it was her 2nd Timberman victory. She also won in 2006.

In a post-race email, Marlo had this to say:

"Yes it was another great event this year. The bike course there is my favorite--challenging and on nice safe roads. Lots of friendly support on the run."

Race Director Kathy Kooda briefly summed up the event in an email.

"From my point of view...it was awesome! We had mild winds & no humidity...We had positive feedback from racers again! No major incidents...everyone had smiling faces and we are so thankful for another year under our belt. July 10, 2010 - mark your calendars."

Later she had this to add:

"...as an FYI, a wedding band was lost, and we had some locals go back to their cabin and get two metal detectors. After over 40 minutes of...searching through grass, it was discovered. I guess you could say it was just some of that small town classy service you get at Timberman?"

Brett "The Toe" Lovaas finished 3rd in the men's race behind Cohen and Brooks Grossinger. The toe he injured at RochesterFest didn't seem to slow him down. Brett had this to say about his digit and his T-Man experience:

"I think the toe is fine for racing. I can still feel something there, not a hurt, just something. Besides, it's only a toe, I have 9 more right! A little nervous for Racine, but more excited than anything.

"Timberman was fun. The swim was fairly choppy and wavy. I felt strong through the swim. I thought I was going fast on the bike until Dan Cohen came humming by me (man was he moving!). There was a back stretch of road that seemed to go uphill forever...and into the wind...twice. That was rough. The run was the run. I knew right after the turnaround that Brooks G was going to catch me, but I had a pretty good notion that I could hang on for 3rd. I was happy with how I raced. Weather was good...all in all a great trip!"

Top honors in the accompanying short course T-Man taken Grand Rapids' Mark Johnson and tri-rookie Tara Croteau of Duluth.

Timberman Results:

DEVON ARRIVES! CATHY DOES IT AGAIN!

(Champions Devon & Cathy celebrate with a double high-five. Photo courtesy of YndeCam.com.)

(Minneapolis, MN - July 11, 2009) St. Paul's Devon Palmer and Apple Valley's Cathy Yndestad out-raced the best amateur fields assembled for an Olympic triathlon thus far in 2009. For Palmer, it was the race of his life. For Yndestad, it was her fourth consecutive LTF-Minneapolis victory, and the 37th win of her sterling career. Finish line arithmetic had Devon and Cathy setting course records but published results said otherwise. Other standout efforts by Elite Minnesotans were turned in by Kortney Haag (4th!), Brook Mutzenberger (6th), Julie Hull (8th), Susan Williams (9th), Jeanne Fleck (11th--1st Elite Master), Heidi Keller-Miler (12th--2nd Elite Master), Rhett Bonner (14th--1st Elite Master), Dennis Dane (6th), Matthew Payne (7th) and Patrick Parish (8th).

As you can see, Minnesotans more than held-their-own against the visiting elite talent that made the pilgrimage to Minneapolis from 16 other states.

The men's pro race could not have been more exciting as three men--arguably the premier non-drafting Olympic distance racers in the World--made a gut-busting sprint to the finish. In the end, Matt Reed nipped Andy Potts by 2/10s of a second. Two time Toyota Cup Series champion Greg Bennett finished four seconds back.

The women's pro race was won decisively by Sarah Haskins. Podium recidivists Julie Dibens and Becky Lavelle took 2nd and 3rd.

A $92,000 purse was divided amongst the top 10 male and female pros. St. Paul's David Thompson placed 9th, earning $2K for his efforts.

Male Elite Amateurs Devon Palmer (MN), Jared Woodford (OH) and Gavin Anderson (IL) earned invitations (and travel and lodging stipends) to race in the Dallas US Open Toyota Cup National Championship in October. Likewise, female Elite Amateurs Cathy Yndestad (MN), Lindsay Whalen (IL) and Mandy McLane (FL) earned invitations (and travel $$). Incidently, Yndestad convincingly won the 2007 Toyota Cup EA Champs.

LTF Results:

LIFE TIME FITNESS PREVIEW...

(Curt Wood plans to out-crank the field at LTF. Photo courtesy of Christine Wood.)

LIFE TIME VIII: Don't be surprised if this year's Elite Amateur men's podium resembles HyVee's. America's top two Olympic distance amateur female triathletes--Chicago's Lindsay Whalen and Apple Valley's Cathy Yndestad--will duke it out on Saturday. Oh yeah, there's a pro race, too. Look for a great performance from St. Paul's David Thompson....

At season's end, USA Triathlon will be tasked with naming their Athletes of the Year and AOY Honorable Mentions. Cathy Yndestad, a two-time AOY HM already, and Lindsay Whalen, are expected to be on the list of nominees. In fact, if the award were given today, Whalen would be the recipient.

If Cathy, winner of the last three editions of the LTF Elite Amateur competition, manages to beat Lindsay on Saturday, whether she wins the race or not, then a great argument can be made for Cathy being the 2009 AOY frontrunner.

Why?

Versatility. Cathy has been brilliant this year at sprints, Olympic distance and the half IM, whereas Whalen appears to be a short course (sprint through Olympic) specialist.

Here are the 2009 resumes for each of these gifted competitors:

Lindsay Whalen: 1st @ Miami International (FL), 1st @ Memphis in May (TN) , 1st @ HyVee (IA), 2nd @ St. Anthony's (FL).

Cathy Yndestad: 1st @ Bartlett Lake (AZ), 1st @ Gear West (MN), 1st @ Pigman Sprint (IA), 1st @ Manitou Sprint (MN), 2nd @ Buffalo Springs Lake 70.3 (TX), 4th @ St. Anthony's (FL).

Assuming that the two highest steps of the podium are reserved for Cathy and Lindsay, the question of who else will mount the platform arises. Some of the contenders include Chicago's Christine Anderson, defending Escape from Alcatraz champ Jenny Fletcher (CA by way of NY), 2009 Lake Waconia winner Brook Mutzenberger (Eden Prairie), Floridian Mandy McLane and North Dakota's Marnie Walth.

Advantage? Walth or McLane. Walth's been on the LTF podium before (2nd in 2007) and just missed (4th) doing the same at the 2007 Dallas US Open's Elite Championship. McLane is young and improving with each race. She actually finished in front of Whalen at Nationals last year, but a penalty knocked her out of the overall top 10.

Now for the guys. On paper, three of the following men should reach the podium: Rick Fesler (PA), 2007 LTF Elite Amateur champ Mark Harms (WI), reigning HyVee winner Nathan White (IA) and Minnesotans Devon Palmer and Curt Wood.

Why Fesler? He was the amateur champion at Columbia last May. Columbia traditionally attracts the deepest amateur Olympic distance field on the entire East Coast.

Why Harms? He's done it before and he's a two-time AOY HM.

Why White? He proved he could win a Big Time event at HyVee. Also, he was runner-up at LTF last year and a top three finisher at Nationals.

Why Palmer? Because he should have won at HyVee. He slogged through the run there and still reached the podium. Also, he may be the best cyclist in the field.

Why Wood? He was 2nd to Harms here in '07. Curt may have the best swim/bike combination--Craig Walton Syndrome--on the U.S. amateur tri scene. To win, he'll need a big lead going into T2.

UPDATE: Let's add another name to the list of favorites: Ohio's Jared Woodford. On June 21, Woodford beat a solid field of men at Washington, DC Olympic. His time was an excellent 1:52:14, just 3:16 behind the pro winner and 6:14 ahead of his (Woodford's) nearest challenger. This has got to be the best Olympic effort by a U.S. amateur male this year.

Hey, who are the men's faves in the pro race?

Greg Bennett (Australia): One win, two 2nds and two 3rds here. Is he fit this year, though? Probably not at the level he needs to be to win.

Andy Potts (USA): Mr. Consistency has been brilliant this year. Last year's runner-up should reach the podium again.

Stuart Hayes (Great Britain): A breakout season in 2008, his '09 performances have been solid but unspectacular by comparison.

Craig Alexander (Australia): Four major 70.3 wins this year already. A former winner here (2005), he is the reigning Hawaii Ironman World Champ. Is he ready for a short and fast race?

Matt Reed (USA): Amazingly talented but prone to occasional bad luck. He's has never raced well at LTF.

David Thompson (St. Paul): If Reed's misfortune here continues and Alexander's long course success has come at a cost to his speed, David could make the podium this year. He's fit and motivated.

Paul Amey (Great Britain): The three-time Duathlon World Champion has been concentrating on the 70.3. His best effort here was a 6th in 2002.

Andrew Yoder (USA). You don't know him now, but you should when the dust clears on Saturday. This 20-year-old has the potential to be special. A podium is possible, but a top 5 or 6 is more likely.

Hunter Kemper (USA): Has the former LTF winner (2006) recovered sufficiently from abdominal surgery last fall? We'll see on Saturday.

As one can see, there are many unanswered questions. Based on 2009 resumes, though, Potts and Reed should control the race. Throwing muscle memory into the mix elevates Potts. Reed's fibers would rather forget the past.

The winner? Andy Potts.

What about the pro girls?

Becky Lavelle (CA): Becky has always excelled in Toyota Cup racing. She's a two-time runner-up at LTF.

Mary Beth Ellis (CO): 2009 winner of Oklahoma Pan Am Champs and Escape from Alcatraz, MB should be a podium threat this year.

Rebeccah Wassner (NY): She's having her best year ever. She's won four major Olympic distances events-- Playas Pan Am Cup, St. Anthony's, Columbia, and Philadelphia--already this season. Reserve a podium spot for this girl.

Sarah Haskins (CO): Hands down, America's best Olympic distance racer in 2008 and 2007, Sarah is now on the comeback trail after surgery last fall. Her '09 results have been decent. Is she ready to start winning again? Good question.

Samanatha Warriner (NZL): With the exception of her 70.3 victory at Geelong (AUS), her 2009 resume is not as impressive as her 2008's.

Julie Dibens (Great Britain): Ms. Versatility has reached the podium here before. Can she do it again? Of course.

Laura Bennett (FL): The six-time Worlds medalist has never had a stellar race here. Like her husband, Greg, she's been flying under the radar this year. Is she healthy?

Sara Groff (CO): One of the most underrated athletes in the sport. Yes, she's capable of making the podium here.

Margie Shapiro (VA): Runner-up performances at Columbia and Philly, both times to Rebeccah Wassner, are her season's highlights. She's a long-shot to make the podium.

Who then will win? Like the men's race in '08, it should come down to a furious sprint between a trio of athletes. Who? Wassner, Haskins and Lavelle.

But who will win? Haskins. No, it'll be Wassner. Wait. It'll be Lavelle. Then again....

LTF's' KID'S TRI - Celebrating the True Heroes of our Sport

What have you got planned for Sunday? How 'bout the kids? What will they be doing? How about joining us at the Life Time Fitness club in Plymouth?

By Sara Ballinger

Minnesota triathletes, it’s time to settle up with the kids.

They’ve been toted to races and pushed in running strollers at early ages. They’ve heard us talk - incessantly - about our passion. They’ve watched us log every mile.

This Sunday, it’s their turn to shine.

Of nearly 200 participants (ages 7-14) some have set goals. But most just want to finish.

Watch out for 9-yr-old Erika. Swimming is her favorite event - and she’s put her time in in the pool.

Veteran triathlete, Parker, 11, got a new ride and hopes to command the bike course.

7-yr-old Ty, learned from his experience last year. This year he’s sporting speedlaces for lightning-quick transitions.

Brother and sister duo Dylan (9) and Sophia (7), both first-timers to the sport, are admittedly nervous but eager to earn their new title.

Race Director, Debbie Hale:

“It is our goal to keep this event fun so kids develop a lifelong passion for health and fitness. In addition, triathlon is a great family event because kids can train with their parents – allowing families to connect, stay healthy and enjoy a sense of accomplishment.”

LTF Kids Tri volunteer, Kim Gorman:

“Over the years I have watched young participants become role models for their family and friends. Spectators are truly inspired by what these kids can achieve. They get a drink of the kool-aid and the enthusiasm just spreads.”

Clearly, the attraction of triathlon is that it’s like being a kid again. So come out on Sunday to Life Time Fitness in Plymouth and support our next generation of triathletes. Kids with heart… proud of what their bodies can do.

For more information visit www.lifetimefitness.com/events/kids-triathlon.

UPDATE: (Plymouth, MN - July 12, 2009) Judging by the smiles of the couple hundred kids that swam, biked, ran – and danced – at the Life Time Fitness Kids Tri Sunday, a great time was had by all. Junior competitors (ages 7-10) splashed their way through a 50-yard pool swim, 2.5 mile bike and .5 mile run. Senior competitors (ages 11-14) tackled a 100-yd swim, 5-mile bike and a 1-mile run. The race concluded with a DJ, music and dancing. Make no mistake… on this day, every finisher was a rock star! - Sara Ballinger

COACH KRIS' PRE-LIFETIME FITNESS MJET REPORT

(The MJETs. Back Row (L-R): Devon Palmer, Nick Madrinich, Michael Williams, Ben Trnka, Coach Kris. Front Row (L-R): Sarah Daniels, Lauren Rantala, Grete Wilt, Abby Tracy.)

(Minneapolis, MN - July 8) This weekend brings the largest triathlon event in Minnesota to the Twin Cities and the MJET’s (Minnesota Junior Elite Team) are up to the challenge. This season has seen the boys placing high in the results in each leg of their races and in overall standings. With LTF being most of our athletes' "A" race, or at least one of them, we feel strong as a team going into Saturday.

All of the MJET’s will be racing in the Elite Amateur category. Look for Nick Madrinich and Michael Williams to come out of the water together first as they have all season long. Devon Palmer and Ben Trnka will not be far behind. Out of T1 expect to see Devon turn on the gas an move up through the crowd on the bike. Devon has been consistently producing solid bike splits this season and I would not be surprised to see him come back into T2 in the lead ala David Thompson. The run will be the true test of fitness. There are many talented athletes who have produced fast run splits against our boys this season that will be racing on Saturday. This will be where the nail biting begins for most parents and their coach.

On the girl’s side, we are stacked with talent but have been plagued by early season injuries and illness. With the likes of Cathy Yndestad and Lindsay Whalen toeing the start line, we have to be realistic about our expectations. Our girls are all strong swimmers and because of that I would not be surprised to see them come out of the in the lead pack. As the group gets out on the bike, it’s anyone’s guess as to what can happen. Sarah Daniels has proven to not only to be a solid biker, but a quasi mechanic after her fix-it experience at Hy Vee. We have recently made some bike set-up changes to Lauren Rantala's and Sarah Daniel's bikes which we believe will help them ride faster and more comfortably. On the run, I will be looking for a recovering Abby Tracy to bring some heat to the 10k course. MJET newbie Grete Wilt is becoming more comfortable with her abilities and I never rule the possibility that she'll turn in a great performance.

All in all I would look for the MJET’s to live up to their name this weekend. They are, after all, Minnesota’s best junior triathletes.

Kris Swarthout

USAT Level II Coach

USAT Midwest Regional Chair

USATF Level I Coach

Co-Owner SCS Multisport LLC

kris@scsmulisport.com

GRANITEMAN VI PREVIEW...

GRANITEMAN VI: Defending champ Michelle Andres will try to stay in front of the deepest women's field in this race's history. A record 500-participants are expected to make the pilgrimage to Rockville on Sunday.

It won't be easy for 2008 Team Minnesota member Michelle Andres to pick up her 3rd Graniteman victory on Sunday. Though her career resume is superior to any of her challengers, she has yet to race this season.

Brooke Larson, on the other hand, has raced frequently with great results. She's won two events--Albert Lea and North Mankato--and placed 2nd at Liberty Olympic. Her swimming and running are strong and her confidence is growing. Her cycling needs work, though. To win, she'll need a faster-than-usual bike split, and/or an uncharacteristically sluggish one from Andres.

Diane Hankee and Kathleen DeWahl are fit and each have won a race already this year. Hankee possess toughness and DeWahl has youth on her side. Of the two, Diane has the best shot at upsetting the reigning champ.

On paper, the aforementioned girls should take the first four spots. There are eight or nine evenly-matched women who should fight over positions five through ten. In other words, this year's women's race should be more exciting than ever.

The men's field, by comparison, is thin, especially since none of past champions Jeremy Sartain (2007), Matt Payne (2008), Chad Millner (2006 ), Eike Mrosek (2005) and John Shelp (2004), or men of their competitive ilk, are not enrolled.

Based on 2009 results, the men's favorite should be Chip Tabor. He should get a nice push from Harold Doise, Micah Turman, Jim Graif and 18-year-old Caius Rickard.

Oh yeah, assistant race director Bill Corcoran is racing well this season. Count him among the pushers.

Several age group records should fall. On the women's side, expect Pam Zachman and reigning Paynesville champ Lisa Hines to go faster than the old 45-49W course best (1:25:40), with Zachman claiming the new CR with a sub-1:20. For the men, expect MTN's June Age Group Athlete of the Month Ben Ewers to blow away the 60-64M record, and for Jim Graif to manhandle the 45-49M mark.

PREVIEW OF the 25th EDITION OF "MINNESOTA'S PREMIER DESTINATION TRIATHLON"...

The men's field has lots of depth, but also lots of question marks. World class 50-plusser Jan Guenther should chalk up her 4th Timberman win, if she races like she did at Lake Minnetonka and Waconia, that is. And most of the divisional records should remain intact, although the men's 55-59 CR should go down hard.

Defending short course women's champ Jody Quesnell (photo) hopes to make it two-in-a-row. (Photo courtesy of YndeCam.com.) And defending men's winner Tim Andrew hopes to chalk-up his umpteenth T-Man Short Course W.

One of the men's favorites is Brett Lovaas, who, after posting two stunning course records--Liberty Olympic and Lake Minnetonka--sustained a serious toe injury at RochesterFest.

Brett, will you be ready to rock 'n roll on Saturday?

"...I was able to get some good training sessions in over the weekend. As for how fast...we'll have to see. I am more focused on Racine and hopefully racing well there. First time in a half...unknown territory for me. As always, I'll give it my best shot and hope for a great day of racing!"

When asked to be more specific about the state of his toe, Lovaas had this to say:

"I don't think it is broken, but you never know...it still really hurts if one of the kids steps on it!"

Under normal circumstances, John Shelp would be listed among the favorites, but life has been anything but normal for John the last few years. He had these comments:

"I have been really struggling with health and energy this year. Not super sure why, but mostly I'm just overcooked--doing too much and chasing children. I'm sure the cancer (non-Hodgkins Lymphoma) doesn't help, but that's not the main concern. I took a good 1.5 week break and the family went on vacation to Disney. I'm back and training this weekend was encouraging. I don't think I'll be contention this weekend and was considering not doing it (Timberman) but my wife and I decided that we love to go to the races with the kids and since I'm feeling a bit better, I'll give it a go."

When asked if MTN could publish his comments, John sent back this classy response:

"I don't mind your using any comments I make but I hope they don't make me look like I'm making excuses. Everyone out there has something in life they're dealing with and it's always amazing to me to see all the athletes overcoming their own demons."

Then there's Dan Cohen, Brooks Grossinger and Josh Blankenheim. Dan is the defending champion, who claims that his 2008 Timberman victory was his best performance ever. His margin of victory was huge, almost three minutes. He'd love to repeat but, with the exception of his recent victory at Croixathlon, is suffering through perhaps the worst season of his career.

And Brooks is not having a great season either, though it started well. (A podium finish at Gear West.) Like Dan, he'd love to resuscitate his season with great performance this weekend.

As for Josh, the question is whether he's ready to win a "Big" race, like Timberman. He's won two races in his young career, but his best effort in a Midwest Multisport Series event was a 6th at Timberman in 2008. After his runner-up effort at Lake Minnetonka three weeks ago, it appeared that he was ready to take his place among the region's true elite. He then followed that performance with a well-off-the-pace 9th at Minneman.

There is one elite male entrant whose season has not been marred by inconsistency. He continues to strut his impressive stuff in his native Canada and on his two trips this year to races in the Lower 48 he has come away with a win--Liberty Half--and a 2nd--Buffalo Olympic.

His name is Jonathan Balabuck and he'd like nothing better than to improve upon his 2008 performance at Timberman, where he finished 2nd.

Who will win on Saturday?

Prediction: Either Cohen and Balaback will come out on top.

Who will share the women's podium with Jan Guenther on Saturday?

Good question.

Lydia Novotny appears to be the strongest candidate. A Rookie of the Year nominee in 2008, Novotny already has two wins to her credit, the most recent being the citizens competition at Lake Waconia.

Ann Snuggerud and Angel Hohenstein are also solid candidates for a top 3 overall finish. Snuggerud's 2009 scorecard features a 9th at Lake Waconia Elite and 6th at Lake Minnetonka. Hohenstein placed 4th at Timberman in 2008.

The men's 55-59 CR --Fred Clayton's 2:11:49, set in 2004--should go down hard. In fact, two, or even three, men-- Gary Bork, Greg Taylor and perhaps 2008 divisional winner Mike Colaizy--should better the old mark. Taylor, who already owns the 50-54 CR and posted a 2:01 last year at the age of 54 (in lousy weather, to boot!), should come away with the record. Expect him to take the mark all the way down into the 2:03-2:05 range.

UPDATE: Timberman Race Director Kathy Kooda just received (Tuesday AM) this e-mail

from women's favorite Jan Guenther:

"Hi everyone at Timberman, you all so nicely signed me up and I cannot make

it. I promised a disabled friend of mine last year that I would help her

make it thru the Lifetime Triathlon-- but she got injured trying to train

last year so I was able to make your race. I did not know if she would be

able to attempt it with her condition (ataxia) this year, but she will be

able to try to do the race (I have to pull her in the swim etc...) and

therefore I cannot do your race (DARN DARN DARN! I love the Timberman).

Thanks so much for letting me in and I so wish they (Timberman & Lifetime) were

not on the same day--"

To which, Kathy replied:

"What a great person & probably the best reason we have heard for not being

able to come."

MINNEMAN'S FASTEST NEWBIES...THEY'RE HOOKED!

MTN congratulates Kjersten Johnson, 28, of Edina, and Nathaniel Morrill, 25, of Minneapolis, on being the fastest newbies at Minneman V.

Via e-mail, Kjersten and Nathaniel commented on their respective experiences at Lake George Regional Park last Saturday.

"For my first triathlon, I had such a great time! The Minneman is a great Triathlon, especially for newbies like me. From the volunteers and spectators to the other competitors, it's just such a fun and welcoming place to be. I will recommend this race to anyone who's thinking about doing a Tri. I am now officially a triathlete and I can't wait to do another one. I'm hooked!

"What a fantastic day!"
-Kjersten Johnson

"...Having a Novice division with it's own waves diffused much of the anticipation of the race, and built a sense of solidarity between those of us who were doing this for the first time. Beyond that, it was also a good distance, not too intimidating, and long enough to really exert yourself and push it; to really make it feel like a proper competition.

"Also, I was impressed with the community of athletes there. Several times I got words of encouragement from people I passed, and in turn gave praise when being passed on the course, which made the experience all the better. Finally, it was clear to anyone who stuck around for the awards ceremony that Minnesota has fostered a friendly and supportive group of triathletes.... Thanks to everyone, especially the volunteers. I had a great time, and I will definitely be back next year."

-Nathaniel Morrill

YOUTHFUL IMAGES..

Katherine Lowrey and Riley Nortrum are both 14. Katharine wants to become an elite triathlete, and appears to be well on her way to becoming just that. Riley just wants to have fun. (The inscription on Riley's t-shirt reads "It's not illegal unless you get caught.")

Katharine finished 7th at Minneman on Saturday. Riley did finish.... And he had a blast.

(Photos by YndeCam.com)

PARISH & NIELSEN IMPRESSIVE AT MINNEMAN

(Photos of Pam Neilsen and Patrick Parish courtesy of YndeCam.com)

(Oak Grove, MN - July 5) Patrick Parish was Minnesota's premier male rookie in 2008. To date he has recorded four victories. Interestingly, none of those wins were as sweet or as career-altering as his 3rd place finish at Minneman yesterday.

Pam Nielsen narrowly missed making the list of Rookie of the Year nominees in 2008. Like Patrick, she turned in the best performance of her budding career at Minneman, finishing a close third behind established stars Heidi Keller-Miler and Darcy Franklin.

Parish has worked hard to narrow the gap between himself and our region's brightest stars. Coming into Minneman, he had missed the podium by one place in three straight events--Buffalo Olympic, Manitou and Lake Waconia. Placing 3rd at Minneman behind course record setters David Thompson (pro record) and Kevin O'Connor (amateur record) was certainly the breakthrough he needed. Additionally, his time was five seconds faster than the old amateur mark.

The gap between O'Connor and Parish was only 15 seconds. Likewise, the gap between Nielsen and runner-up Darcy Franklin was slim, only 14 ticks. She was only 44 seconds behind Keller-Miler, who posted her 3rd Minneman victory on Saturday.

On July 19, Parish and Nielsen will take their renewed confidence to Annandale, where they'll take on one of the two or three deepest fields of the season at Heart of the Lakes. It is reasonable to expect that both these athletes will finish higher than in 2008, when Patrick placed 7th and Pam 13th.

MINNEMAN TRIATHLON: The Race of the Year Just Keeps Getting Better!

(Patrick Parish stalks Matthew Payne at Minneman V. Photo courtesy of YndeCam.com)

(Oak Grove, MN - July 4) For the last three years, Minneman has been named Triathletes Choice Favorite Race of the Year. And guess what, the 2009 version was better than ever.

What makes this event so special, a cut or two above so many otherwise great events? A wonderful venue? "Go-the-extra-mile" management and volunteers? Extra love for newbies and novices? Great competition? Abundant amenities? Free food for spectators?

Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. And perfect weather and a placid, i.e. very un-Waconia-like, lake don't hurt, either.

The competitive headliners on this day were David Thompson, who torched his own Elite course record, June Athlete of the Month Kevin O'Connor, who lowered Curt Wood's amateur CR by 20 seconds, divisional record setters Terry Alexander (50-54M), Bob Sturm (60-64) and the astonishing Katharine Lowrey, who at 14, nuked the junior course best by almost five minutes and finished 7th overall in the women's race.

Minneman works hard to attract newbies and novices, and almost 20% of the 450-registrant field fell into these categories. What's the difference? Newbies are those who were making their triathlon debut this morning. The novices are those who are rookie triathletes who have participated in at least one other multi this season. The fastest of the newbies/novices were Kjersten Johnson, 28, of Edina, and Nathaniel Morrill, 25, of Minneapolis. Johnson covered the 1/3 - 13 -3 course in 1:22:32; Morrill in 1:12:32.

2009 Minneman Records:

* Elite Male Overall - David Thompson, 53:34 (Old Record: David Thompson's 54:56 in 2008)

* Amateur Male Overall - Kevin O'Connor, 56:11 (Old record: Curt Wood's 56:31 in 2008)

* 19U Girls - Katharine Lowrey, 1:10:45 (Old Record: Jessica Delgehause's 1:15:10 in 2006)

* 50-54M - Terry Alexander, 1:07:07 (Old Record: Dale Woodbeck's 1:07:22 in 2008)

* 60-64M - Bob Sturm, 1:17:11 (Old Record: Bob Sturm's 1:18:46 in 2008)

Yndecam's spectacular slideshow:

Updates & photos coming soon.

Minneman Results:

"ALL IN A DAY'S WORK..."

(Photo by Tom Witta)

A decorated triathlete, Cindy Schlafmann is dedicated to keeping other athletes in the game. Below is a link to a recently published Star Tribune's online interview with Cindy.

"Cindy Schlafmann, a physical therapist and manager at TRIA Orthopaedic Center in Bloomington, talks about her job. She discusses why she chose a career as a physical therapist, what a typical workday is like, and how her role fits..."

MINNESOTA'S BOUS MEDALISTS

Pictured above are the top 3 Elite Men and Women at the Lake Waconia BOUS Qualifier: Top - Matt Payne - 3rd, Kevin O'Connor - 2nd, Brian Bich - 1st; Bottom - Brook Mutzenberger - 1st, Jan Guenther - 2nd, Susan Williams - 3rd. Brian and Brook will represent Minnesota at the Best of the US Championship on September 27 in Mission Viejo, CA. (Photos by Denny Johnson.)

In the first four years of the Best of the US Amateur Champions Competition, Minnesotans have truly distinguished themselves, both at their state qualifier and at the National Championship, where they've earned 6 individual and 3 state awards. There is no reason to believe that this trend will not continue.

At the BOUS Championship the top 10 men and women receive awards, as do the top 5 state teams. Here's how the Minnesotans fared:

2005 - Brian Bich -3rd; Emily Deppe - 8th; 5th - Fastest State Team

2006 - Brian Bich - 9th; Cathy Yndestad - 6th; 3rd -Fastest State Team

2007 - Jeremy Sartain - 15th; Cathy Yndestad - 3rd; 5th - Fastest State Team

2008 - Brian Bich - 3rd; Marlo McGaver - 16th; 6th - Fastest State Team

MINNEMAN PREVIEW...

(Photo: Tony Schiller can be expected to rewrite Minneman's masters record.)

Speculating on who will do what at the three-time Triathletes Choice Race of the Year.

Minneman's elite men's field will be deeper than ever, with at least nine men fighting over the three prize money positions. The women's field, on the other hand, is, forgive the expression, top-heavy. Two women should separate themselves from the pack. The chase group should include at least four women, one of whom will grab the 3rd podium spot.

Here are the top guys (in alpha order):

* Josh Blankenheim. If this talented Duluthian races like he did at Lake Minnetonka, where he placed 2nd, he might make the podium. He is one of the four fastest runners in the field. This will be Josh's Minneman debut.

* Dennis Dane. The former Rookie of the Year (2006) and Most Improved (2008) nominee needs a great effort here to turn around an uncharacteristically lackluster season. He'll need to be at least as strong as he was at Manitou, where he placed 5th among a Who's Who field. He finished 4th at Minneman last year.

* Eric Hendrickson. Eric was 2nd here in 2005 and 5th in 2008. His PR on this course is 57:52. He'll need to be at least a minute faster than that on Saturday if he hopes to pocket some prize money.

* Neil Miller. Neil was impressive--5th--against a great men's field at RochesterFest Olympic last weekend. If he duplicates that effort, will he land on the podium on Saturday? Probably not. The faster cyclists will be at least one mph faster over the 13 mile course, giving those riders a two minute advantage going into the run segment. Neil's a very fast runner, but he cannot make up that kind of deficit on a three mile course.

* Kevin O'Connor. MTN's June Athlete of the Month comes in as the amateur favorite, i.e. the man most likely to finish 2nd behind pro David Thompson. Curt Wood's amateur CR--56:31--is not soft but Kevin, who was victorious here in '05, is fit and fast enough to break it.

* Patrick Parish. Patrick, the runner-up in the Rookie of the Year voting last year, has a bright future. He just missed (4th) the podium last month at Buffalo Olympic, Manitou and Waconia Elite. This could be the weekend he cracks the top 3.

* Matthew Payne. The frontrunner for the 2009 Most Improved award, Matt proved last weekend (3rd at Lake Waconia Elite) that he is on the verge of bridging the gap between the chase pack and our region's leaders. Right now, Kevin O'Connor, Brian Bich and Devon Palmer have gone off the front. Sam Hauck, Curt Wood, and now Matt Payne, are the guys who seem most capable of catching up. Sam and Curt aren't registered for this weekend's race. Matt is. Prediction: Matt rounds out the men's podium.

* Jeremy Sartain. Jeremy is still on the comeback trail following his devastating accident. A top 5 finish here would further illustrate his remarkable recuperative powers. He should win a race or two this season, but the first of those victories is probably 3-4 weeks off.

* Tony Schiller. At 51, Tony is a long shot to make the podium. But he was a long shot to win at Lake Minnetonka last year. He not only won, he set a course record. It is unlikely that Tony will make any money this weekend, but he will certainly crush the masters record, which is 1:03:27. Expect Tony to break one hour.

* David Thompson. A first-tier pro, David should win handily, as he did the last two years. His victory in Philadelphia last weekend--the 51st of his career--suggests that he's fit and capable of breaking his own course record (54:56).

On paper, these are the women to beat:

* Darcy Franklin vs. Heidi Keller-Miler. Darcy finished 2nd here in 2007. She was 36 seconds behind the winner, who just happened to be Heidi Keller-Miler. That year, she also finished one place behind Heidi at Buffalo Olympic, Manitou and Life Time Fitness Elite. A glance at their side-by-side resumes shows that Heidi has won every confrontation, although, usually by a slim margin. Is there any reason to think that Darcy can reverse this trend on Saturday? Sure, it's possible, but Heidi is coming into the event ticked-off. She's anxious to avenge the position penalty that dropped her from 1st to 3rd, and from $700 to $100, at RochesterFest Olympic last weekend. Advantage: Keller-Miler.

Who will earn the 3rd place paycheck?

Four names jump off the registration page: Laura Mills, Pam Nielsen, Abby Ruess and Sarah Viamonte.

* Laura Mills. She has one career win (Green Bay '08) and has finished in the top 5 on seven occasions since taking up the sport in 2007.

* Pam Nielsen. This is a short race for Pam, who seems to prefer halves and fulls.

* Abby Ruess. Abby has two career wins and has one podium finish in Midwest Multisport Series competition (3rd at Brewhouse '07).

* Sarah Viamonte. Sarah placed 4th at Rochester last weekend, in spite of a very conservative run split. (She's nursing a foot injury.) When healthy, few ladies can keep up with her in the final segment of a tri. If she can run hard, she should leave Minneman with a check in her pocket. If she can't, the money will go home with Ruess.