Tucson Triathlon

Tucson, AZ has been a training town for triathletes since the sport was started. The year round good weather, and network of city outdoor pools that stay open year round are only part of the reason. Tucson is consistently rated as one of the most friendly cycling towns. There is a large network of cycling lanes throughout town and endless miles to head out into the desert. The only down side is the occasional retired boat that thinks the bike lane is an extra place to drive. The racing calendar is very active in southern Arizona, and starts every year with a sprint tri around the University of Arizona. In March the event usually attracts one of the many pros that are found training in the winter. This March, the race is attracting more attention with its association with Trisports' grand opening into their new store and warehouse. Trisports is a traithletes candy store and is the largest provider of on-line triathlon related goods. As members to Athlete In You, you get a 15% discount on all the goods (). To check out the race this march or any other local races check out . They always put on quality events. Another favorite event is the close ocean swim Rocky Point triathlon. At times it is a championship event and is always a fun getaway just four hours across the border. The pinnacle event in AZ is Ironman Arizona every April in Tempe, AZ, a short two hour drive from town. Jimmy Riccitello has been a constant force in Tucson and is now a part of www.athleteinyou.com. He will provide information, interest stories and more from his favorite triathlon town. Doug Friman, Olympic alternate in 2004, also lives and trains in the old pueblo. Favorite pools to use are Udall Park, on the east side of town, or Hillenbrand/University of AZ in the central part of town. For rides, Mt Lemmon is a weekend favorite, where you can climb up to 8,500 feet over about 25 miles of raw beauty. An Oracle ride up the marathon course is also popular as well as rides to Vail or to the west side of town over Gates Pass. There are a few triathlon clubs in town. Tucson Desert Heat, http://www.tucsonmoone.com/, http://www.tucsontrigirls.com/, http://www.arizonatricats.com/. So if it is winter training or practicing for the heat in Kona, Tucson is a class act destination for the triathlete. See you out there.