2025 Pomona Duathlon

 

Race Reflection

Switching gears from the intensity of mile racing to the hour-long grind of multisport isn't something the body adjusts to overnight. I’ve been on the bike for a couple of months now—not chasing new power records, but building consistency and control. For this race, I had one simple goal: stay in Zone 4 and keep everything under control.

🏃 First Run – 0.45 mi (2:41, 6:02/mi)

The first leg was short—a 0.45-mile dash—barely enough room to create separation. My plan was to keep the heart rate low and conserve energy. I settled into the lead group with one other runner. At the turnaround, I put in a small surge to create some distance before transitioning. A smooth, efficient T1 followed, and I was out on the bike.

🚴 Bike – 11.78 mi (32:25, 21.8 mph avg)

The course was flat but mentally demanding, with three 180-degree turns and a climb over the 288 overpass. I didn’t press early—just found a rhythm. Around mile 8, I was caught and passed. Rather than respond emotionally, I focused on staying present and relaxed. I didn't let the time gap define the outcome—I just stayed steady. I knew the final run would be my chance to make a move.

🏃 Second Run – 3.18 mi (21:58, 6:55/mi)

Back into T2—another clean transition—and I hit the pavement for the final run. The course was an out-and-back, giving me only one or two chances to time the gap to first place. About a half-mile in, I saw the leader cross a course marker ahead of me. I mentally clocked it—roughly a 40-second gap. I was gaining. By mile 1, I had closed the lead down to 20 seconds. At the turnaround, I caught him. I surged once more to establish separation, then locked back into rhythm and focused on getting home.

📊 Race Summary

Segment	Distance	Time	Pace/Speed
Run 1	0.45 mi	2:41	6:02/mi
Bike	11.78 mi	32:25	21.8 mph
Run 2	3.18 mi	21:58	6:55/mi
Total Time	—	59:08	—

Overall Rank: 🥇 1st Place
Age Group (M40-99): 🥇 1st Place
Weather: 77°F, Sunny

🧠 Key Takeaway

This race wasn't about max power or pushing redline—it was about staying patient, executing transitions cleanly, and letting the run do the talking. I’m proud of the way I held my composure, timed my effort, and finished strong. As always, I have the BEST support crew, I am really lucky that my family is out at each race cheering me on. They get up at the crack of dawn to travel with me, I am fortunate!

👉 Official results

📷 Photos