Race Report - Ateneo Aquathlon

As I had already an Aquathlon under my belt (3 weeks ago - Speedo Aquathlon), I was not as nervous as I would have been. After checking in, I proceeded to do some warm-ups with Alf & Jody. I learned that there would be no swim warmup, so I warmed up for a good 20 minutes or so, and did some light stretching.



This Aquathlon was 'tough' in another way - it was a relatively short (600 meter) swim, but in a 25 meter pool. I find it's much more difficult, and time consuming to be zig-zagging under lanes, and getting in and out of the pool so many times. During a swim leg of a multi-sport event, you want certain things - space, calm waters and a nice straight route - none of which are present in a 25 meter pool. The run was a 2 loops, out and back towards the Moro Lorenzo Gym and back to the Blue Eagle Gym. Light Hills, but alot of trees :)

A quick race brief, and we were let through the gates of the pool complex. As we were escorted to the pool, I realized one thing - that we were going into the pool while the other female age groupers were still completing their last 200-400m. We were asked to enter the pool, and 15 seconds later, we were off.

Me and my teammate Alf, once again performing our 600m synchronized swim

Over 30 angry men, crammed in 1 lane of a 25 meter pool - absolute mayhem. I always pick the inner part of the lane, so that I have only the right side to deal with - a technique which I thought of seconds before my first Aquathlon. The first 100meters was just about getting space. After about 100-150 meters, I finally got space. However, it was at that point that the our pack had caught up with the women. After reviewing photos taken by Hannah, I realized that when the mob arrived, the women proceeded to hang on to the lane markers, as they were being trampled upon. I hope the organizers take note of this, and next time, allow the wave to finish before another wave is let in the pool.

Swim-Run-Dive-Swim-Run-Dive-Swim and 600meters later, I found myself getting out of the pool. Lo and behold, I came out of the pool with PMI Team Captain Rayzon Galdonez. I guess the traffic held him back. A quick transition - slip on running shoes, ditch goggles, sip some water later, and off I was to the run.

During the run

I went on cruise control and enjoyed the run very much. It was nice to be back in the Ateneo, and once again pouring sweat - but this time, in another sport (or 2?). The trees provided alot of shade, which was very pleasant, and the tranquil surroundings, some peace and quiet during the run. I did not push on the run, as I've been nursing a knee injury. The race was about finishing without injuring myself further.

Around 37 mins and 6 seconds later, I crossed the finish line. It was a success in my books, as I had been able to run the 5km run quite comfortably. Somehow, this race felt easier than the Speedo Aquathlon (950m-3k), perhaps because of Ultra's hills. All in all, a great race :)

Team Super's Alf, Myself and Jody

Except for the running over the women part, and the fact that I do not appear in the Race Results, the event was very much a success. There were over 300 participants, and everyone looked happy, albeit tired looks and panting. Kudos to the Ateneo Swimming team for putting out this event.

Me with Ivy, Alf, Jody, Ting & Bobby

'Til next time. Keep Brickin!

*Once again thanks to trigger happy Hannah for the race pics :)