17th annual now history

Now that the 17th annual Buffalo Springs 70.3 is history there is always a sigh of relief that it is come and gone, with record numbers, no serious accidents, and a happy community spirit; however, there is also a feeling of letdown since so many things go on in the last week. During that week the final details that cannot be done any other time are wrapped up and the athletes start coming to town for the event. The hotels start filling up, the expo is put together, the transition starts taking form, the athletes are out previewing the venue, and the excitement and positive energy that is generated from the sport of triathlon begins its' new life for another year. The good news is that 2006 was a truly banner year, while entertaining record entries in both the age group and pro fields Buffalo Springs 70.3 experienced great competition and record times from the athletes. Natascha Badmann came in nine days early to prepare for the race and it worked, she set a new women's record with a 4:22 finish and Luke Bell won the men's side with a record breaking 3:54. No athlete had ever broken four hours on this course, and we had two, with Simon Lessing finishing second with a 3:57. But I feel the real news is that there was such a great positive synergism of the event throughout the city, starting with the many volunteers and the everyday citizens of this area. Many athletes told us that the hospitality in the area is the best they have experienced in their triathlon travels, so that made us all feel real good. The event itself went off on time, despite some concern earlier about bad weather, and even that turned out to be one of most perfect weather days. Another first was the presence of Lubbock's newly elected Mayor. In the history of the event no Mayor had ever showed up at the race. Mayor David Miller took time from his Saturday afternoon to address the athletes at the pre-race meeting and thank them for being here. Since they had traveled from 41 states and 10 countries, it was great to have him here to welcome the visitors to our city. The race went off so well it almost makes it scary to think of 2007 and what we can do to make it better and improve on 2006. The 70.3 concept of qualifying for the World Championship in Clearwater, FL was really a big hit. It created new excitement for the sport and was met with great enthusiasm by the athletes. Even though the Kona slots are always the darlings of the event, with both the 70.3 and Kona slots it guarantees excitement and tremendous competition. Now, back to planning for 2007!! That never ends!!

Stay tuned for the next report on the immigration issue in Ransom Canyon. Now they are taking over the city library and demanding Canadian French books be stocked on the shelves. I noticed yesterday a new group of them feeding off of the boat dock area. They were eating so hard and intense they didn't even look up when I honked at them. Of course with their honkers, they just honked back while ignoring me to. What a bunch of rowdies!

For any of my faithful readers out there that happen to be triathletes and members of USA Triathlon, living in the SouthMidwest Region, please vote for ME!! I have been notified that my name will appear on the ballot for the upcoming elections for the National USA Triathlon Board elections. The last time I served on the board was 1993-4, serving as President of the Board in '94. With my additional experience since that time I feel I am more prepared to serve the members who elect me. My goal is to serve the sport of triathlon in an ethical manner and always using the Golden Rule as my guideline for service.

Off to the canyons for a training ride,

greer