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Local Grad Wins HITS Triathlon Series Corpus Christi Race
Posted: Feb 20, 2012 12:24 AM by Jason Notoras - jnotoras@kristv.com
Updated: Feb 20, 2012 12:44 AM
CORPUS CHRISTI -- A local graduate returns to Corpus Christi in a big way. Austin Saylor, 37, was the first to cross the finish line in the HITS Triathlon Series' first visit to the Sparkling City by the Sea. Saylor, a 1992 King grad, finished the course in 9-hours, 29-minutes, and 19-seconds.
"I was hoping to break 9 (hours) today, but I came out of the swim a little slow. Then the wind picked up on the second loops of the bike portion. Still this feel great."
A longtime marathon runner, Saylor said the idea of competing in a triathlon in his home town happened by accident.
"My friends kept bugging me and asking me when I would ever run a triathlon. And I always thought triathlon races were for whackos and nutjobs, which I guess we are for wanting to compete like this, and I never thought I would want to do one. A couple of years ago I bought a bike, then started out with a half (triathlon).
Saylor, who competes and trains with the Brian Loncar Racing Team based in Dallas, ran his first triathlon in 2008 and hasn't turned back.
"I was reluctant about my next race. I was about to register and I dropped my wallet. It knocked over a magazine, and I kid you not, it opened to HITS Triathlon Series. I'd never heard of it before, but 'Corpus Christi' there it was in full. So I'm like hmm, that's it. It was perfect. There was no question. I was going to compete at Corpus Christi."
Of his return, Saylor said he enjoyed his trip to the Island and revisiting old, familiar spots. And now that the event is over, it's time to enjoy some relaxation time.
"I have on dry clothes that are not spandex, and here in about 15 minutes food is going to be on my mind. Then maybe in 2-3 hours beer will be on my mind."
Saylor says this is his 3rd full triathlon, and it is the 2nd time he placed 1st overall.
A representative from the HITS Triathlon Series said they are already planning next year's (2013) race in Corpus Christi.
The 2012 course included a 2.4 miles swim in the bay followed by a 112 mile bike ride that reached parts of the island. The race wrapped up with a 26.2 mile run on Shoreline.
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