August 5, 2024
Introduction
Completing the Escape from Alcatraz Triathlon has always been a dream of mine, and this year, I finally made it happen! The thrill of this iconic race, known for its challenging and unique course, was everything I hoped for and more. From the jump off the ferry into the chilly San Francisco Bay to the intense swim, bike, and run segments, every moment was an adventure. Here’s a recap of my unforgettable experience.
The Lottery
This was my first time participating in the Escape from Alcatraz Triathlon, and gaining entry is no small feat. You have to enter a lottery to gain admission to the race. I was fortunate enough to be selected this year, and I will absolutely enter the lottery again next year. This was an epic experience that I am eager to repeat!
The Goal
My primary goal during the race was simple: to smile throughout the entire event. And I’m happy to report that I achieved that goal! The atmosphere was electric, and the camaraderie among participants made every moment enjoyable.
The Jump
The race began with what can only be described as an epic leap of faith. Standing on the edge of the ferry, looking out over the 55-degree rough waters of San Francisco Bay, my heart raced with anticipation. As the horn sounded, I took the plunge into the icy water, a shock to the system that quickly turned into a thrilling rush of adrenaline. The 1.5-mile swim was a true test of endurance, battling the cold and the currents, but every stroke brought me closer to the shore and the next leg of the race. The swim was the most exciting part, despite the rough and cold waters.
The Bike Ride
Transitioning from the water to the bike, I was energized by the cheering crowds and the breathtaking views of the city. The bike course, with its steep hills and sharp turns, challenged my legs and tested my resolve. Each climb was rewarded with exhilarating descents, and the sense of camaraderie among the athletes kept me motivated.
The Run
Finally, the run. My legs felt the strain of the previous legs, but the iconic landscape of San Francisco spurred me on. The run course took us through the picturesque Crissy Field and up the infamous sand ladder at Baker Beach. The toughest challenge was running up 400 steps of sand halfway through, which definitely got my heart rate up and put some burn into my legs.
The Finish
Completing the race was exhilarating. The finish line was a long chute on grass, surrounded by hundreds of people screaming and cheering. I crossed the finish line with a time of 3:18:13, which placed me 20th out of 62 in my age group (M 60-64), 672nd out of 1,230 among men, and 829th out of 1,631 overall. Considering I was not really racing but just having fun, I was very happy with my performance, finishing in the top third of my age group.
Conclusion
The Escape from Alcatraz Triathlon pushed me to my limits and beyond, but the sense of accomplishment made every challenge worth it. I can’t wait to share the race photos soon and relive those incredible moments.
Thank you to everyone who supported me on this journey, and to my fellow competitors for making this race an unforgettable experience. Until next time, San Francisco!
If you’re considering taking on the Escape from Alcatraz Triathlon, I highly recommend it – it’s a challenge like no other!
