RACING WITH THE BEST
TRIATHLON AND RUNNING are unique in the sports world because “regular” triathletes (and we put that word in quotes because there’s no such thing as a regular triathlete) have the opportunity to race with the world’s best. How often do hockey enthusiasts get to step onto the ice with their heroes from the NHL? All those arm chair quarterbacks would probably give up a body part to be able to spend some time on a CFL field.
So, while you might not be on the course at exactly the same time as the pros in a triathlon, you are racing over the same distance, under the same conditions and facing the same challenges. At some triathlon events, you’ll even head off at the same time as the pros, so you can truly compare your performance.
The ITU World Triathlon Montreal offers an even more spectacular opportunity when it comes to racing and seeing the pros. As a World Triathlon Series (WTS) race, it’s almost guaranteed that a good portion of the world’s top draft-legal triathletes will be on hand as they compete for valuable points for the world championship. As important as the points are, Montreal has become one of the most popular stops on the WTS circuit, which helps draw a stellar field. Race organizers have set up the schedule, too, so that you can enjoy your own race, then watch the world’s best fly through the water at the Old Port, then rip up the streets of Old Montreal on the bike and the run over a spectator-friendly course, where you’ll see some of the world’s premier triathletes numerous times.
So what should you be looking for, and what can you learn from the experience? Here are some things to look for.