Ironman Frank: Week 3

Augusta Sports Council President Frank Gibbs, Jr. is training for his first Ironman 70.3 triathlon. Frank will compete in the ESi Ironman 70.3 Augusta on September 26, 2010. In his weekly blog, “Ironman Frank” will share his experiences leading up to his first competition, as well as basic guidelines and training tips for other first-time triathletes.

An Ironman 70.3 encompasses 70.3 total miles of racing – a 1.2-mile swim, 56-mile bike and 13.1-mile run. For more information about the ESi Ironman 70.3 Augusta, visit IronmanAugusta.com.

Hello fellow athletes! This week, I want to talk about the equipment you need to get started in the sport of triathlon. Just like anything, you get what you pay for, so be prepared to spend some money on good equipment! A good bike can range from about $800 to $14,000. (That's right... $14,000!) You don't need to spend that kind of money on your first bike, but it will last a long time if you take care of it. Just like a car, a bike needs to be serviced depeding on how many miles you put on it each month. The folks at Andy Jordan's Bicycle Warehouse were fantastic to work with, and will provide the guidance you need, depending on how serious you want to get with the sport. I chose a red and black (Go Dogs!) Specialized Tarmac. And of course, don't forget the "extras," including the helmet, bike shoes, socks, gloves, pants, bike pump, extra tire patch kit, tripometer, safety lights in front and back and water bottles. Other equipment I purchased included two good pairs of running shoes and a Garmin Forerunner GPS from Fleet Feet North Augusta, a waterbelt, wetsuit, swimsuit and goggles from Augusta Swim Supply, plus sunglasses, a couple of singlet shirts for training, and bike jerseys with rear pockets to store my fuel. Non-tangible expenses include a pool membership for swimming laps and money each month for 5K, duathlon and other event entry fees. At last count I think I am in about $4,000. I know that seems like a lot and will probably climb higher as race day approaches, but the equipment I bought will last a long time. Remember to buy quality equipment and support locally-owned businesses! On that note, thanks once again to my sponsors, Ricks Paint & Body, Trucks & Moore, Augusta Pet Crematory and Andy Jordan's Bicycle Warehouse.

See you next week,
Frank