Challenge Bahrain – 6.12.14
A Half-distance early December is for a European triathlete due to the seasonal cycle rather unusual, but I was lucky enough to attend this extraordinary experience of the premiere event in the Arabian Peninsula. For me personally a training race, that was systematically incorporated into the 9- month preparation for the Ironman Nice. For the stellar PRO field, incl. both Hawaii champs, a nice Christmas present (total of $500k price money for top 10 each). By looking at the deluxe Pasta-Party and the live-gig of the Dire Straits one could also easy realize, who’s backing up this event; his Highness Sheikh Nasser did participate himself.
“If you’re planning a trip” … another walk-out by German carrier Lufthansa strongly messed-up the preparations, but after 12hours travel time, I was able to touch Bahraini ground Tuesday evening, 10.30pm local time. The worst moment in the life of a flying triathlete: Opening the big-bag and the construction of the time trial: Phhh, fortunately everything went well again. Now nothing should stop me now.
Saturday, Dec 6. 8.15am. Whilst at home young & old diligently examine the yield in their Santa-stockings (St. Nicholas Day), 105 amateur-female athletes (thereof 25 in my Age group) “flooded” into the Bahrain Bay in front of the Royal Family. With 34.14min, it went OK for me, 4th in my Age group, the hunting shall begin.
The 90k flat, bike course, mainly on highways, with some “bumps” (approx. 1000ft) led us across the north, the city of Al Muharraq, back via the capital Manama to the south, in the desert. After about 85km we entered the first time Bahrain International Circuit, the Formula 1 course, where normally Vettel, Rosberg and Co – turn their – really – fast laps. Having changed into the running shoes we were sent onto the 21.1km long lap to and through the Al Areen Wildlife Park. With my animal passion again another lovely treat 🙂 However, when a 2 meter Strauss passed my way in 50m distance , I was briefly a bit perplexed , but thought to myself , one reason – to run faster. But because I cycled controlled with my watt-system, I was able to demonstrate my running talent without animal help and could secure the AG victory
The indisputably highlight was, however, the finish on the starting line of the Formula 1 track, after 1.35h. Goosebumps pure!
Conclusion:
1st place AK35-39, 22nd female overall, best German and with 4:52 on a fast (bike-) course personal best over the middle distance , in a premiere race that is organizationally difficult to beat, was the best St. Nicholas , I’ve ever celebrated my life.
Last but not least I have to emphasize the exceptional hospitality and service by Arabs and Asians. Being there not for the first time, it’s always a unique treatment.
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