Right Around the River Blog
Another Successful Rocketts Landing Triathlon/Duathlon
Post Date: 07-24-2012
Richmond Multisports did it again! Last weekend, almost 400 athletes came out to compete in our annual Rocketts Landing Triathlon/Duathlon -- creating one heck of a competition along the James River.
Sponsored by the VCU Medical Center, participants raced in either triathlon or duathlon courses, winding an Olympic-length course through Rocketts Landing streets, Richmond city hills and, of course, the James River. An early morning helped racers get a head start on the summer heat, but due to the day's humidity, some did find themselves navigating with fogged-up glasses on slick roads. Despite the weather, everyone finished in time to celebrate at the after party, hosted by The Boathouse in their Riverview rooms overlooking the James River.
While partygoers noshed on good food and wound down from the race, Richmond Multisports awarded the Rocketts Landing Triathlon/Duathlon winners, whom President and Race Director Laurie Mehler described as “the fastest tri- and duathletes in the region.” They also successfully raised $415 to benefit local nonprofit the Neighborhood Resource Center (NRC).
"All in all, it was an exciting event for us to help out with," explains NRC Program and Volunteer Coordinator Penny Ferris. "Richmond Multisports did a great job — kudos to Kristin Hutcherson and Laurie Mehler! We are also incredibly thankful for all of Rocketts' support, from these wonderful fundraising opportunities to our happy and helpful Rocketts-resident volunteers who show their support throughtout the year."
Speaking of residents, two Rocketts Landing residents competed in the Rocketts Landing Triathlon/Duathlon this year — and one even received an award for her age group! We love when residents get out and participate in our community’s variety of events, so we thought we’d get the skinny on their experience.
Therese Willis, Sky Line resident
This year marked Therese’s second Rocketts Landing Triathlon/Duathlon. With nearly 75 marathons behind her, the running leg was easiest for Therese. The swim was more of a stretch, but she mentally prepared the night before by “swimming the distance non-stop in her mind.” She also pointed out that the biking component ended up being slightly harder than expected due to the slick roads created by the day’s humidity — though none of these factors kept her from winning top place for her age group! All in all, Therese enjoyed every moment, as these events have become a part of her Rocketts Landing way of life.
“I love the fact that Rocketts Landing partners with sporting events tied to the river,” Therese explains. “My husband is very involved with the Virginia Boat Club, and we are always grateful for the partnership Rocketts has with the boat club, as well. Having the convenience of triathlons starting out the front door is definitely a draw [to living here]!”
Ryan McCarthy, Cedar Works resident
Ryan seized newfound time in his life this year (after finishing grad school and marrying his wife, Thea) to train for the Rocketts Landing Triathlon/Duathlon — and, like Therese, he found the running section easiest to complete. In fact, he’s been running the race’s route since he moved to Rocketts Landing in 2007. As a novice cyclist, Ryan said biking the hills were the most challenging for him — but, he plans to improve his performance for next year. Overall, Ryan says he thoroughly enjoyed racing with others in his own Rocketts backyard.
“[The race] reinforces the reason I decided to move [to Rocketts Landing] in the first place,” he says. “My vision was to work, eat and play all in the same location and enjoy outdoor life in the ‘River City.’ Having others come far and wide to participate and experience the ‘Rocketts way’ was a very gratifying experience.”
We’re thrilled that our residents — and all participants — had such a great time at the Rocketts Landing Triathlon/Duathlon. A big shout out to the day’s volunteers who kept everyone cool, refreshed and happy! And perhaps next year we’ll see even more residents compete. Relay team anyone?