Apple Duathalon

Since 1999, Mike has participated in the Apple Duathalon race here in Sartell. This race has changed a little over the years, but has remained popular for many athletes. This year's event hosted approximately 450 runners and bikers from 27 different states. Many elite athletes compete in the 5K Run-33K Bike-5K Run because it is a National qualifier for other big-wig triathalons.

This race brings back a lot of memories for Mike: racing with his two best friends from high school (Jon K. and Charlie S.), running it individually and on relay teams, winning a $1600 bike during one of the drawings, and blowing a tire in the middle of the 33K bike ride.

This was my second successful Apple Duathalon as well. Jeni Schad and I did a relay in 2005 (the year between Nolan and Lilly) and placed 2nd in the Female Relay Division. We had to tease the guys because we were awarded a "granite apple" on our first attempt. Not even sure what our time was that year, but it was pretty exhilarating.

We were both excited to participate today. The weather was near perfect. Cool, but not too cold and sunny. There was a little more wind than I think most would have liked, but we all had a stretch with it at our backs. Mike had intentions of competing alone this year, but at the last minute Jon K. and himself created a dynamite duo. Mike is a strong runner as many of you know, and Jon is a stellar biker. They had an outstanding race and ended up placing 2nd in the Male Relay Division with a time of 1:39.00 They finished 4th out of 40 relay teams and about 84th overall.

I ran on a relay team as well. One of their guys friends who is also a biker needed a runner. So, on Wednesday of last week, Mike called me and told me I was running the race too. Matt and I had a lot of fun and did pretty well too. We finished in the middle for relay teams with an overall time of 2:02. I ran my first 5k in 25:07 and my second one in 27:10.

We celebrated with the House of Pizza Fit Club after the race. Thanks Charlie and Jeni for hosting your annual BBQ. (Your BBQ is another great memory.) Congrats to all our friends who participated. And a special thank-you to my Dad and Mary for coming to help us with the kids and cheering us on.