Ben’s Race Page

So I have been living in Chicago for 10 years now and have been driving to and from the suburbs for work that whole time. My commute typically takes an hour each way, but on bad days, going into Chicago can take much longer. I recently started taking the train to work. My decision was based on a friend’s experience and the rising gas prices. Taking the train involves driving about 4 miles to the station, then taking the shuttle from the destination station to work. When weather (and train rules) permit, I ride my bike to the station, take it on the train and ride to work. This may take a little longer sometimes, but I know how long it is going to take and it is much less stressful than sitting in traffic.
I don’t quite know why I didn’t do this before. I guess I liked having the freedom of my own schedule or I thought it would be a pain. I have found that I don’t mind the schedule and it’s actually relaxing to ride the train. I know that I am saving money by going this route.

No, I didn’t race, but I went to watch my fiancee and her friend do the race. Carrie did great and I am so proud of her!

It’s a different experience to watch a triathlon instead of participate, but I had a lot of fun. The course was set up well for spectators. I got to see Carrie 4 or 5 times and I got a bunch of really good pictures. I love the continuous shot mode on the camera. It really helps to capture action shots.

The weather was perfect for the race, except for the storm that delayed the start by 1 hour. The race looked like it was put on well. Carrie had a lot of fun and had a smile on her face every time I saw her. I even got a kiss from her on the run out.

While standing at the bike out waiting to see Carrie, I saw a lot of the participants struggle with getting on their bikes and getting started. It looked like most people were in way too high of a gear. I have to think they talk about this at the seminar at the expo. It just seems like this one little piece of advice would make the bike start a lot easier.