Soldier HollowSaturday February 23rd, 2008 - Soldier Hollow, Utah

Thank you all for a great race...we will see you at 2009's BASH Winter Tri and at this Summer's Battle at Midway Triathlon (BAM).

Who's ready to BATTLE it out on the snow?!? BASH Winter Triathlon is just that...a Winter Multisport event that consists of running, mountain biking, and cross-country skiing - all performed on the packed and groomed XC ski trails of the World famous Soldier Hollow (former 2002 Winter Olympic Venue). BASH is a perfect way to learn new sports, improve your base fitness, and expand your skills as a multi-sport athlete during the off-season.

The running portion of BASH (snowshoes not allowed) will be contested on hard-packed snow (packed XC ski trails) with a distance of 3.8 kilometers. The mountain bike leg will be a distance of 11.4 kilometers...and the final leg, cross country skiing (classic or skating allowed), will be 7.5 kilometers long.

WINTER TRI 101
Below are helpful hints to get you started with winter triathlon training. It is a great way to break up the monotony of indoor workouts for those who live in climates with a real winter season.

    Running
    Equipment - Trail shoes, cross country spikes, and regular racing flats equipped with sheet metal screws (1/8 inch) are the best choices for winter triathlon. As the footing on snow is somewhat challenging, racers will want a relatively supportive shoe. Some even wear cross-country spikes for extra grip. One way to get extra traction is to drill 8-10 sheet metal screws - 1/8 of an inch - into the bottom of an older pair of running shoes. This trick is also great for running in areas with lots of ice in the winter. Snowshoes are not allowed in the BASH Winter Tri.

    Technique - Running on snow is not significantly different than running on hard ground. Keeping a relatively high turnover and using a mid-foot to fore-foot strike is optimal. Over-striding can cause you to punch into the snow each step. When possible, follow the footsteps of a runner ahead of you.

    Cycling
    Equipment - Any mountain bike with large width tires (at least 2.0 in, 2.2 to 2.4 inches recommended) and aggressive tread will work well. Run relatively low tire pressure, down to 15-20 psi! Tires with spikes are legal, though most competitors shun their use because of the additional weight. Helmets are mandatory.

    Technique - Mountain biking is a balance sport, and in the snow it requires even more balance than ever. Occasionally, to avoid spinning your rear tire, you may need to push a slightly larger gear than normal. Staying relaxed and not over-steering will go a long way toward keeping you upright.

    Skiing
    Equipment - Classic or freestyle (skating) technique are both allowed, though most serious competitors use freestyle technique as it is faster. Athletes wear Nordic ski suits or tights and long sleeve jerseys, gloves, and hats or head-bands depending on conditions. A supportive boot, poles and skis that are the appropriate length and stiffness, and proper preparation of your skis (i.e. waxing) are the key elements and equipment required to ski. Soldier Hollow offers ski rental options.

    Technique - Your finesse, and not your fitness, will be the key to skiing fast. In winter triathlon, the most technically and aerobically taxing event is placed at the end; making for a challenging situation. Practicing your balance and specific ski techniques are paramount to becoming an efficient skier. Skiing without poles is an excellent drill to improve your ski technique.

    Transitions
    Run to Bike - Be sure that your bike equipment is easy to use with gloves on! Putting on a heavier glove and/or jacket for the bike section is often necessary to stay warm.

    Bike to Ski - You are allowed to ski with your bike helmet on, but it's not cool. Ski boots are not the fastest or easiest shoes to take on and off, and you must carry your skis and poles out to the mount line. Practice makes perfect!