Rick and I enjoyed this race in '17, as a new venue for us. The advantage is it doesn't require an expensive motel arrangement, just an early drive from Santa Cruz. The swim and bike courses are also very good. The road quality is a smooth pleasure vs the rough beat-up roads of Santa Cruz County. Lake water was the perfect temperature this early Summer day. However, my psoas injury was not going to permit an enjoyable 10K run, so I just jumped in for the swim and bike and then took photos.

Bikes de-barked, we embark to the check-in.

Ready

The swim is in an old sand quarry. The water table climbed to fill the depression, making a fine recreational lake.

The Santa Cruz Triathlon Association had a big contingent.

I had a good swim, and the early miles on the bike are on major roads in the Pleasanton/Livermore area. The sewage treatment plant chose a happy whale as their face to the public. Didn't help the smell, though.

Then on up into the hills north of Pleasanton

This part is an out/back. Faster racers are coming back in.

Family members enjoy the last moments of the ride, coming into the Park

Lots of healthy young people milling about, waiting for friends to finish.

Ferrell finishes the race

...And claims his finishers medallion

Dave Slothower did the sprint race. Great to see Sloth again!

SCTA did well on the podium spots

Rick takes 3rd in his age group - well done!