Son of Spud, Maryland - Triathlon Week

08-23-2004, 08:09 PM

Doing the Son of Spud Olympic Dx Triathlon in Indian Head, MD, on
08/15/2004. Anyone on this forum done it or the June Spud (same
course)? I just did Riverwatch up in North East, MD, and the water was
perfect for just shorts. I can't get a clear answer on water temp for
this one though.

Any insights, please share.

08-23-2004, 08:09 PM

Hi Andrew,

> Doing the Son of Spud Olympic Dx Triathlon in Indian Head, MD, on
> 08/15/2004. Anyone on this forum done it or the June Spud (same
> course)? I just did Riverwatch up in North East, MD, and the water was
> perfect for just shorts. I can't get a clear answer on water temp for
> this one though.
>
> Any insights, please share.

I have done the June Spud, though not the last 2 years :-( In June, the
water is fine for just a swim suit, though there are lots of people in
wetsuits. I suspect the water temp Aug is even warmer. The one thing to be
prepared for is the (lack of) visibility. At least for the June race, it
always seems to rain the day or evening before the race, and the water is
pretty murky. Visibility can be low enough that you can't see your hand
when your arm is fully extended. That said, it is still a nice swim on an
out-and-back course.

In fact, the whole race it pretty nice (Brad puts on some great races).
Rolling bike route through mostly farmland and rural scenery (only a few
McMansions), and the end of the run through the camp ground and over the
bridge. Be forewarned that most of the run course is along the main road.
Except for the last mile(?) through the campgrounds there is little or no
shade! If the sun is out, you will bake. I haven't done the August race
yet, but even in June the sun can wilt you. Get lots of fluids, wear
light-colored clothes and bring a hat (if you can run with a hat on - some
people can't as it makes them feel hotter).

Good luck and have a great race (and a good time).

Bob
Shaver MultiSport (USAT Level 1 Certified Coach)