In this Daily: A Triathlon Training Ground (And Great Triathlon Recovery Destination)
Las Catalinas is no stranger to Triathlons. The Las Catalinas Triathlon is one of town’s oldest traditions, with reigning XTerra Champion Rom Akerson and Costa Rican Olympian Leo Chacon competing frequently.
Town also hosts a number of triathlon training camps thanks to partners at RaceQuest. Competitors of all skill levels come to enjoy the world-class trails and easygoing recovery lifestyle. And in the words of long time competitor and trainer Jessica Jacobs: “if you find yourself in Las Catalinas, that’s a pretty nice plus!”
For most triathletes training in the Americas, Las Catalinas provides a more accessible travel option than other popular destinations like Kona. For one set of triathletes, whose sights are set on the world championships in Nice, Las Catalinas was the perfect training and recovery destination for the Playas del Coco IronMan 70.3.
Triathlon Training in Las Catalinas: A Destination for Before and After
Char is an athlete aiming for the IronMan 70.3 World Championships, which take place this September in Nice, France. The World Championships are qualification-only. This means that racers have to post a specific time at a qualified 70.3 race around the world.
Last weekend’s Playas del Coco IronMan 70.3 was one such race. Char and her husband Scott arrived in Las Catalinas a few days earlier. They chose Las Catalinas as their destination to prepare for the race and recover for a few reasons.
There was plenty to do in town for their 3 kids, and town was a happy home for their 2 dogs (both love water and were able to freely and safely walk through town).
Also, they had visited town before, and appreciated the lap pool and nice treadmills, which were a vital resource to help keep Char at max fitness to perform in the race.
And perform she did! Landing first in her age group with a definitive qualification time of 6 hours and 3 minutes (an excellent time considering the heat). There was also a fine showing from Las Catalinas Triathlon legend Rom Akerson. Ron was the first to finish the race but could not claim official victory due to there being no professional division.
For Char and Steve, the next few days can bring some recovery and relaxation around town with the family. Recovery swims at the Beach Club or in the calm waters of Playa Danta. Massages at Wake Day Spa, some celebratory dinners at Ponciana or at home may also be in order! All while continuing to enjoy the naturally healthy lifestyle around Las Catalinas. Just the ticket for cooling off after a job well done.
Congratulations Char!