Kerrville, Texas, boasts a delectable culinary landscape that caters to all tastes and cravings. Indulge in a cozy and charming meal at Bridget’s Basket or savor the fine dining experience at Pinnacle Grill. For a true taste of the region, Hill Country Cafe offers comfort food with a local twist.
Tag Archive for: first triathlon
Learn what causes skipping chains and what you can do about it
There are two main causes for skipping chains. The most common cause is the misalignment of the rear cogs and the chain itself. The second most common cause of skipping chains is wearing on the chain, cassette, and/or the chainrings. Read below to see what causes each and how you can prevent chain skipping and extend the life of your bike.
There are several things that can cause the misalignment of the rear cogs and the chain.
- Improper cable tension. When the tension is incorrect the chain does not sit in line with the corresponding cassette cog and is trying to jump to the next cog.
- Dirty cable. The dirt prevents the cable from moving like it needs to.
- Slightly bent hanger for the rear derailleur. Can affect the alignment.
Skipping chains will wear on the chain, cassette, and/or the chainrings. The chain is the most likely to wear out first since it is made entirely of small, moving parts. Those parts tend to wear out faster when they are dirty or ridden dry. Chains on most modern drivetrains usually last anywhere from 1500 to 2000 miles. This can change depending on your riding style and how well you maintain your bike. If you keep your drivetrain clean and you tend to spin at a slightly higher cadence then you will get more mileage out of your chain. Follow these six steps to clean your drivetrain.
When the chain wears, it no longer sits evenly on the cassette cogs and chainrings. As this goes on the chain will eventually start to jump since the chain wears much faster than the cassette and chainrings. If you let your chain go too long it will start to wear down the teeth of the cassette first and then the chainrings. If the chain is replaced before it is too worn the cassette and chainrings will outlast the chain many times over. You’d much rather want to replace your chain than the cassette and chainrings.
Pro tip: Use this bike tool to measure chain wear at home.
As you gear up with your training for the Kerrville Tri, we wanted to share some fun but challenging swim workouts to try on your next training day.
Still working up to 600 meters? Cut the work out in half for a fun but challenging 300m swim workout.
Looking for a long workout? Mix and combine or do them all at once!
Swim Workout #1
2 x 50 meter slow warm up
2 x 50 meter with fins. No rest
2 x 50 pull buoy. 45 second rest
8 x 25 increasing pace every 25. No rest
2 x 50 cool down
Swim Workout #2
1 x 50 meter slow warm up
1 x 50 kick board
3 x 50 pull buoy. 30 second rest
1 x 50 kick board
3 x 50 pull buoy. 30 second rest
2 x 50 free style
1 x 50 backstroke cool down
Swim Workout #3
2 x 50 slow warm up
2 x 50 breath right side only
2 x 50 breath left side only
4 x 50 increasing pace every 25. 15 second rest
2 x 50 cool down
Swim Workout #4
1 x 50 easy. 15 second rest
1 x 50 hard. 15 second rest
1 x 50 easy. 15 second rest
1 x 50 hard. 15 second rest
4 x 50 race pace with no rest
1 x 50 as fast as you can
3 x 50 slow down with 1 min 30 sec rest
Swim Workout #5
2 x 50 slow lap with 1 minute rest
3 x 50 with kickboard and fins
1 x 50 freestyle easy
1 x 50 freestyle hard
3 x 50 with kickboard and fins
2 x 50 slow lap with 1 minute rest
Swim Workout #6
2 x 50 slow lap with 1 minute rest
4 x 50 freestyle with 30 second rest
4x 50 pull buoy with 45 second rest
2 x 50 slow swim laps
More than 1800 triathletes, the largest field in event history, registered for The Most Scenic Triathlon in Texas
Nearly 5000 triathletes and their friends and family traveled to Kerrville, Texas, for the 10th annual Kerrville Triathlon Festival. More than 1800 triathletes from 20 states, the largest field in event history, registered for the Most Scenic Triathlon in Texas. Participants gave their all during a picture-perfect weekend on a course highlighted by swimming in Nimitz Lake, cycling through the Texas Hill Country, and running along the Guadalupe River.
After crossing the finish line, participants were treated to fajitas and cold beer from Pint and Plow, snacks. May took advantage of an opportunity to recover in the refreshing waters of the Guadalupe River. Kerrville Tri also launched best pricing for 2022, which ends on Monday, October 4th.
“I couldn’t have asked for a better experience at my first quarter-distance triathlon,” said Kellie Dewveall, who became the first blind triathlete to complete the Quarter distance (4:17:47). “High Five Events was super accommodating which allowed me to feel more comfortable. And the participants and spectators overwhelmed me with their never-ending support!”
Something for everyone
Kerrville Tri offered distances and events for triathletes of all levels and abilities. The Rookie Sprint distance, aquabike, relay, and kids fun run took place on Saturday, September 25th. Quarter distance, quarter aquabike, half distance, half aquabike, and half relay took place on Sunday, September 26th. Participants picked up their packet at the Kerrville Triathlon Expo, which was free and open to the public. It took place on September 24-25 at the host hotel, Inn of the Hills Hotel. The national anthem was sung by Master Sergeant Brandon Addison on both days, including before he competed in the Rookie Sprint. Before each distance began, members of the Austin Tri Club led the pre-race warm-up, pumping up participants before their swim.
“This was my first Kerrville Tri and it was so well put together and by far the most seamless race I’ve ever done,” said Karina Wilson, who traveled from College Station and placed 2nd in the female 25-29 age group in the Rookie Sprint on Saturday (1:15:12) and volunteered with her fiance on Sunday. “We made a weekend out of this and really enjoyed the city of Kerrville. I love that Kerrville Tri offers different distances and events to make it inclusive for triathletes of all levels!”
Unforgettable race weekend
Ben Rawson (56:03), of Austin, Texas, won Saturday’s Rookie Sprint while Fernanda Bau (58:50), of Pflugerville, Texas, won the female division. Sunday’s winners and their times follow: Quarter – female winner, Allison Koch (2:24:28), male winner, Adrian Cameron (2:07:57); Half – female winner, Brandi Swicegood (4:54:29), male winner, Alex Sharp (4:28:12). Results for Saturday and Sunday are available.
“This was such an amazing day to enjoy this beautiful course aptly named The Most Scenic Triathlon in Texas,” said Swicegood, who’s coached by former professional triathlete Paul “Barny” Matthews under Julie Dibens Coaching. “The event was so well-organized with amazing views of the Texas Hill Country and spectator support seemingly everywhere!”
Participants received limited-edition 10th-anniversary swim floats, tri-blend shirts, reusable water bottles, belt buckle finisher medals, personalized race bibs, and Zone 3 silicone swim caps. A post-race meal of HEB fajitas, prepared by Jack and Adam’s Fredericksburg’s employees, awaited participants at the finish line festival. They’ll also get a free, personalized finish line video from FinisherPix to commemorate the 10th anniversary. Kerrville Tri is a USAT-sanctioned event. It provided professional timing and offered professional photography. A great volunteer crew, hundreds of supportive spectators, and an energetic finish line festival made race weekend memorable for everyone.
Big thank you
The Kerrville Triathlon would like to thank the City of Kerrville, Kerrville Fire Department, Kerrville Police Department, Kerr County Sheriff’s Department, Kerrville Convention and Visitors Bureau, and sponsors H-E-B, Peterson Health, Jack and Adam’s Fredericksburg, Pint and Plow Brewing Company, Grape Juice, Zone3, Peak Fitness, MO-RANCH, Hill Country Bicycle Works, Mamacita’s, and Gatorade.
Triathletes from 20 states are ready for the 10th-anniversary celebration
The Kerrville Triathlon Festival is ready to welcome the largest field in its 10-year history for triathlon’s return to the Texas Hill Country. Close to 1800 registrants from 20 states are bringing friends and families to the 10th -anniversary celebration. Kerrville Tri’s growth continues to showcase why it’s a true destination event. Race weekend features a two-day expo and eight different events, plus a free Kids Fun Run. Kerrville Triathlon is owned and produced by High Five Events. It’s scheduled to take place on September 25-26, in Kerrville, Texas. The final price increase occurs Tuesday, September 21st, at 11:59 p.m.
“Kerrville Triathlon Festival is one of our family’s favorite weekends because there are two days worth of events for triathletes of all ability levels,” said Andrea Fisher, mother of four, Austin Triathlon Club President, and Ironman World Champion qualifier. “My girls, husband, and other Austin Tri Club members are racing on Saturday and supporting me and other triathletes during Sunday’s events. I’m excited to get out on the racecourse with all of my friends and my family, it’s been too long!”
10th-anniversary perks
Participants receive limited-edition 10th-anniversary swim floats, tri-blend shirts, reusable water bottles, belt buckle finisher medals, personalized race bibs, Zone 3 silicone swim caps, and a post-race meal. Kerrville Tri will also provide a free, personalized finish line video for all participants as part of its 10th anniversary. This video, valued at $19, was added to a list of perks already in place for the event. The popular destination triathlon is known for its scenic views and fun atmosphere.
“Kerrville Triathlon’s 10th anniversary is going to be special and we’re ready to celebrate with triathletes, family, and friends from 20 states,” said Stacy Keese, co-owner of High Five Events. “The event’s increased growth and popularity further highlight that it’s one of the top destination triathlons in the country.”
Something for everyone
Kerrville Tri offers distances and events for triathletes of all levels and abilities. The Rookie Sprint distance, aquabike, relay, and kids fun run take place on Saturday, September 25th. Quarter distance, quarter aquabike, half distance, half aquabike, and half relay will all happen on Sunday, September 26th. Participants can pick up their packet at the Kerrville Triathlon Expo, which is free and open to the public. It’ll take place on September 24-25 at Inn of the Hills Hotel.
Kerrville Tri is known as The Most Scenic Triathlon in Texas. It features a swim course in Nimitz Lake, bike course showcasing downtown Kerrville and the surrounding countryside, and run course along the Guadalupe River. Participants can also float in the Guadalupe river in their 10th-anniversary floats as part of the post-race festival. Kerrville Tri is a USAT-sanctioned event, provides professional timing, and offers professional photography. A great volunteer crew, hundreds of supportive spectators, and an energetic finish line festival make race weekend memorable for everyone involved.
Save time during your race with these transition tips
Transition is where all of your gear is set up for switching between sports. This can be a really chaotic place, but an organized transition area can save you time and help you achieve your goals. There are two transition areas (T1 and T2) at Kerrville Triathlon. There are also different gear bags for T1 and T2. This gear bag guide will help you get everything you need in the right spot! Review the weekend schedule to ensure you know when transition opens and closes for your race. Shoutout to Michelle Bonathan, Kerrville Tri Ambassador, for putting together these transition tips.
Setting up T1 for cycling
This is where you will drop off your swim gear after the swim and get ready to bike. Your cycling essentials are your bike (packed with the water/nutrition), shoes, and helmet. Laying a small, bright-colored towel down can make it easier to spot your setup in transition after the swim. On the towel, have an area to stand on to dry/wipe your feet. Place your helmet and shoes close by and make sure they’re ready to slip on. Arrive early for bike check at T1 to increase the chances you get a good spot. USAT rules are that bikes should be racked by the saddle and the front wheel goes down on the side with your stuff.
The first of your three gear bags will be the Green “Morning Clothes Bag.” Place anything you’ve worn to the race site that you will not use during your race in this bag. Drop it off at the assigned box truck at T1.
Your “Bike Gear Bag” is red. You’ll put your swim gear (goggles, swim cap, wetsuit, towel) in the bag when you get out of the water. This bag will be delivered to T2 by awesome volunteers. Thank them as you head out with your bike!
Packing T2 for the run
Your last bag is the Blue “Run Gear Bag.” This is for all your run gear when you get to T2. This bag will hang from a designated spot corresponding to your bib number. It must be dropped off before race day! The absolute essentials for this bag are your run shoes (if you don’t ride with them) and your race bib. You might also want some nutrition, a second bottle, or a hat.
Speed tips
- consider riding sockless, but don’t do this for the first time on race day
- have shoes open and ready to pull on with socks open and stuffed in each shoe
- consider getting a race belt to hold your bib and avoid safety pins (they can also hold your gels)
These transition tips will make your race weekend that much easier. Follow the weekend schedule and use the gear bag guide to make sure you’re doing everything correctly. Now you just need to be at the start line and swim! All your gear will be waiting for you when you need it once you properly set up your transition area on race day.
Ensure your new running shoes are broken in and race-day-ready
You have an upcoming triathlon and all your running shoes need to be retired or are on the verge. So of course you’re ready for a new pair. Or two! There’s plenty of advice that can help you find what’s right for you if you don’t know exactly what you want. They’ll take care of you. Don’t start running in them right away. You’ll need to break in your new running shoes, even if they’re the same version as your old pair. This is a vital step that can make your future runs more comfortable and reduce the chance of injury. Utilize the 3 tips below to properly break in your new running shoes. They’ll get you race-day-ready and you’ll be more comfortable on the run.
#1 – Take the walk, then run approach
Don’t rush the breaking-in process. Your feet need time to adjust to your new running shoes and vice versa, your shoes have to adjust to your feet. Lace your shoes how you want them. Walk or lightly jog in them for a few days. If you’ve switched brands or tried a different style, add another day or two to ensure they’re the right fit. This gives your new running shoes and feet a chance to adjust to each other. During this time period, feel free to increase the amount of time spent walking or lightly jogging. If everything checks out then you’re good to increase your mileage! Ideally, you’ll break in your new running shoes within 4-7 days.
#2 – Wear running socks
Wear running socks during the break-in process so you get a precise idea of how everything feels. When walking or lightly jogging, make sure everything fits and nothing on the shoe rubs uncomfortably. Nobody wants to get blisters or have a part of the shoe rub your skin raw during a run. If your old shoes are wearing out, chances are some of your socks are too. Look for signs like the material getting thinner or holes in the toes.
#3 – Keep your old pair
You know it’s time for new running shoes when you reach a certain mileage, experience lower-body pain, or the shoe doesn’t respond like it once did. But don’t get rid of your older shoes just yet, they might have some mileage left on them. Keep running in your current pair while you break in your new kicks. Once the new pair is ready to go, alternate what you wear during your runs if your older pair isn’t quite ready for retirement. If they have some more life they can extend the life of your new pair. Once the older shoes have hit their mileage give them a new life as yard work shoes and what you wear when walking your dog.
Once you get used to your new running shoes you’ll notice the difference! Your run will feel more comfortable, the shoe’s responsiveness will be evident, and the new cushioning will reduce the impact on your joints, muscles, and bones. Make sure you give yourself plenty of time to break in your new running shoes before race day. After all, you bought them for the event and you’ll want to show them off!
Follow the 5 Fs of relay and start building your triathlon relay team
Triathlon is often a sport people become involved in as part of a life milestone or a personal goal. The discipline, training, and gear can be intimidating and overwhelming. But, there’s a less daunting entry point to triathlon for rookies. Build a triathlon relay team! The same applies to veterans who want to try longer distances or participate with friends and family. Building a triathlon relay team offers all of the race-day benefits with less training. Lindsey, CapTex Tri Ambassador, shared the following advice and explains why relay is the way to go. So read about the 5 Fs, share with your friends and family, and start building your triathlon relay team today.
The 5 Fs of creating a triathlon relay team
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Fun
Triathlon is one of the most grueling, yet most fulfilling athletic accomplishments. Sometimes the “fun” is in the “done.” However, having raced the full distance and 6 relays as the bike leg, I love to relay. Race day feels more relaxed to me and I really love participating with friends or family. I have the ability to compete without having to hold back and extra time to cheer for everyone else!
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(F)Physical
The training required for three disciplines can be difficult and time-consuming. There might be bumps in the road due to physical limitations and/or injuries like these common foot problems triathletes experience. Perhaps you’re only comfortable with one or two disciplines due to your current skill level. Building a triathlon relay team is a great way to still race if instances like these occur.
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Family/friends
I’ve raced with both of my kids since they were 8 and 10 years old. A triathlon relay team is a great way to be directly involved in sports with them. Over the years, the experiences and friendships I’ve had in the triathlon community are unique to being a part of relay teams. It’s even better when you sign up to relay with friends at the last minute or introduce a family member to triathlon by having them complete the leg their most comfortable with. Pro tip: if you’re the swim leg, learn how to find swim goggles that are right for you.
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Fitness
Those new to triathlon often go for long-distance races as their goal. Relay provides a low-risk opportunity to find out what distance is the best fit for you. When your first race is a long-distance tri, a bad day or a DNF (did not finish) can leave you with a bad experience after investing so much. Fitting in the time to properly train can be challenging, but specializing in one leg is less time-consuming.
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Finance
Triathlon is an investment of your time and finances. Joining a triathlon relay team is a great way to spend less time training and fewer dollars on gear, equipment, and coaching. Registration and travel can cost less when everything is split between the team. Gear costs could be cheaper when focusing on one discipline since you’re not purchasing items for swimming, cycling, and running. Additionally, joining a relay team can help first-timers learn about their new gear and become more comfortable with their discipline. Pro tip: if you’re the bike leg of your relay team, check out these bike buying dos and don’ts before you shop!
Triathlon has been a fun part of my life for eight years. Being on many triathlon relay teams has contributed to many of my great memories. I’ve seen it be a great opportunity for beginners to learn the sport or for veterans to introduce themselves to a new distance. As more people start swimming, cycling, and running to improve their health, creating a relay team is the best introduction to triathlon.
Maximiliano gives some insight into training for his first half distance triathlon
Everyone’s triathlon journey is different. Some want a new challenge. Others like the steadiness of training and the thrill of competition. There are triathletes who want to create a healthier lifestyle for themselves. Sometimes people are overwhelmed and never start. Maximiliano is a Kerrville Tri Ambassador sharing his triathlon journey about what led him to register and train for his first half distance triathlon. It hasn’t been a smooth road for the new father, but he has the support of his family and the triathlon community. His journey is unique, but similar to many other triathletes. Learn about his start, the ups and downs, and what he’s learned along the way. It will all culminate in his first half distance triathlon at Kerrville Tri’s 10th anniversary! Whether it’s your first Rookie Sprint Tri or your 10th half distance, join Maximiliano at The Most Scenic Triathlon in Texas.
A crazy idea
My name is Maximiliano Ramirez and my first son was born in February 2019. At that time I was in the worst physical shape of my life. I weighed 255 pounds and could not run more than two miles without getting exhausted. Seeing my son for the first time made me realize I had to make some changes to my life. That is when I got the crazy idea of participating in triathlons. With zero experience I bought my first used road bike online and registered for my first triathlon, Rookie Tri.
As you can imagine, I didn’t have much time to train (less than three months!). I was getting used to life as a father, but still managed to finish the race. But all I needed was that race to get hooked on triathlon. You can say I got the bug! I signed up for two more races that year, Lake Pflugerville Tri (Olympic distance) and Jack’s Genetic Tri. I was really pumped for the 2020 season, but as we all know Covid derailed events and training plans alike. During that time I was happy that I got an extra year to do more research. I learned more about training plans, different equipment, and how to take better care of myself. That gave me the courage to sign up for my first half distance triathlon at the 10th annual Kerrville Tri.
Continued support
When I made the decision to register for my first half distance triathlon, my wife, without hesitation, gave me her full support. Having her by my side throughout the training process has been incredible. I have researched many training plans and asked many of my friends for tips. I think asking for help is important to do. You never know what you’ll learn! Also, don’t be embarrassed to go out there and try something new, whether it’s new swim equipment or your longest bike ride.
My current training plan consists of two swimming days (Monday and Friday). That gives my legs time to recover before and after long weekend rides/runs. During the week I alternate between short runs and rides during my lunch break. Depending on how hectic my days are, there might be a day or two where I work out at night.
Tips to make training work
Like many other triathletes with families, work, and a busy life, finding time to train can be difficult. But really all you have to do is adjust your routine and schedule. For example, on my long rides, I typically go to sleep early so I can wake up around 4:00 a.m. This allows me to be out the door no later than 5:00 a.m. Making minor adjustments helps me balance training for my first half distance triathlon and everything else in my life.
In addition to the actual training plan, nutrition and hydration are just as important. Make sure to hydrate, especially with electrolytes, when training is demanding. I still consider myself a new triathlete and I’ve tried many products. Nothing has worked like I want just yet and I’ll continue to research and experiment until I find what works best for me. But just like training and certain workouts, you have to experiment with nutrition and hydration to discover what’s best for you.
I hope my experiences help others who want to register for a triathlon, but are nervous about jumping into something new. Just remember that anything is possible. You have to put in the work, but you should also be confident that you can achieve it. It will take time to get in a rhythm, but once you do it becomes second nature. Then you’ll graduate from sprint triathlons to your first half distance triathlon! I encourage everyone to join me at the 10th annual Kerrville Triathlon Festival. They have distances for triathletes of all abilities.
Grow as a swimmer when you transition from the pool to open water
The thought of swimming in open water can cause anxiety and feel overwhelming if you’re used to the clear waters of a pool. But don’t worry! It’s not as daunting as it seems. Transitioning from the pool to open water can be done easily by following some helpful tips. For example, if you want to become comfortable or more comfortable with open-water swimming, then you should swim in open water more often. Good news, all of our tips but one can be done in the pool! Start today and before you know it you’ll become more comfortable with taking your swim from the pool to open water. Pro tip: build your endurance in the open water with this Zone3 swim gear.
6 ways to become more comfortable
1) Keep your eyes closed
While swimming in the pool, keep your eyes closed for several strokes while your head faces down in the water. Increase the number of strokes as you become more comfortable. This will help you get a feel for swimming straight without needing to use the black line at the bottom of the pool as a reference.
2) Challenge yourself
This doesn’t have to be overwhelming, but there are a couple of different ways you can challenge yourself in the pool. First, try swimming in a pool that’s longer in length than what you currently train in. This will help build your stamina and get you used to swimming longer distances without stopping.
If you can’t access a longer pool, try moving your workout to earlier in the morning before the sunrises. This is beneficial if the pool isn’t lit and is similar to swimming with your eyes closed. Swimming when it’s darker outside can make it tougher to see. This provides an environment similar to what you’ll experience in open water.
3) Practice sighting
Sighting means you focus on something far away while swimming in open water. Focusing on that helps keep you from veering off course and swimming more than you have to. To practice sighting, you need to synchronize looking ahead with your stroke and breathing. Look at a target at the end of the lane, swim for two strokes, look at your target, repeat. This will help you become more comfortable with sighting in open water and keep you on course. Don’t swim extra if you don’t have to!
4) Learn to be efficient
In order to be an efficient swimmer, you need to reduce your stroke count for each lap. Sighting will help you become more efficient too. It takes fewer strokes and less energy if you swim in a straight line versus zig-zagging in the water. Taking in the right amount of oxygen when you breathe can help you become more efficient too. Keep your form the same as often as you can so you don’t over-extend yourself and feel like you have to play catch up.
5) Wear your wetsuit
If you plan to wear a wetsuit during your event, you need to become familiar with it before race day. If you do this in the pool, know that chlorine can be harmful to your wetsuit. Wearing it before your race allows you to gauge the buoyancy of the wetsuit and its impact on your form and stroke. Learn about the pros and cons of wearing a wetsuit before you purchase one.
6) Swim in open water
This would be a great time to get familiar with your wetsuit! Find a lake or other body of water to practice swimming in open water. Doing this before race day will help you prepare for what you’ll experience. This is where all the work you’ve done in the pool gets used. You won’t have a black line to guide you, so sighting will be imperative so you can swim efficiently.
This advice will be beneficial in helping you transition from the pool to open water. As you practice in the pool, find what works for you and stick with it. Repetition in the pool is what will help you when you transition from the pool to open water. Ask other triathletes for their tips and advice, like advice on the best multisport watches. Who knows, the insight they provide might be useful for you.