Behind the Scenes

This past weekend I worked at the inaugural Rev3 Wisconsin Dells Triathlon.  Logistically, it would have made sense to race this race (since it was practically in my backyard), but instead, I decided this would be the race I would work; to give back to the organization I am so proud to represent. I have raced at two Rev3 races- Costa Rica & Portland.  Costa Rica was an AWESOME two-day race and one of the most spectacular experiences of my life.  Portland was a Sunday race and allowed me to experience Rev3 in all of its awesomeness (Costa Rica had fewer of the typical Rev3 bells and whistles, as that would be cost prohibitive to put on the event).

Rev3 prides itself on being an athlete-centric, family friendly race organization.  As an athlete, I have experienced this first hand.  At a Rev3 race you can expect to find an expertly organized venue and race,  staff and volunteers who go above and beyond and- most importantly- an event that the focuses on a FUN experience for the athlete, family and spectators!  This was just as true in Central America as it was in Portland.  This weekend I experienced how Revolution 3 makes this happen and it was an INCREDIBLE experience.

I arrived on Thursday around 6pm to find much of the expo area set up.  I was quickly put to work in the Retail Store (probably not the best place for me as I tended to hang one/buy one! Oh well, there is no such thing as too much Rev3, Blue Seventy, Swiftwick, Pearl Izumi gear, right?!).  Day one ended early because of all the local support, at about 8:00 p.m.  We were treated with an awesome dinner at a local pizza joint.

Day two, Friday- 7am - 9pm.  Expo opened Friday afternoon so everything had to be ready to go- race packets, timing chips, all vendors in place, etc. The expo ended at 7:00 p.m. the work crew had dinner and finished setting up transition and getting the timing equipment ready by around 10pm.  Everyone works really hard, but the camaraderie was awesome.  It's so obvious that everyone love Rev3. 

Day three, Saturday- 7am - 10pm (some folks til 2:00am!)   Expo is open and athletes are pouring in. Lots of pro's turn out for Rev3 events, not only because they are so well organized, but they have one of the most generous prize purses out there.  The mandatory athlete meeting followed a pro-panel, which gave AG athletes an opportunity to ask pros about race strategy, balancing family and training, etc.  Again, way more than the typical mandatory course talk.  Most of us were able to go home early (though 10pm is hardly early), as race day check-in is as 4:45 a.m.  However, there were at least four of the work crew out on the lake setting up buoys until 2:00am. This had to be done after 10pm because the lake where the swim took place hosts an evening ski-show (Tommy Bartlett's).

Sunrise Race Day Morning

RACE DAY! Day four, Sunday- 4:45am - 11:30pm (some folks til 1am!).  My main job was in timing, but if you're working you are expected to help out in every area, whenever and where ever needed.  I ended up in transition after a few hours to help manage the athletes still racing and those coming to check their bikes out; which is often quite hectic but very important, as people spend a small fortune on their bikes!  After transition was cleared we started breaking things down and loading up the semi.  This was the beginning of race day part 2!  Upon returning to Expo the last racer was coming around the bend.  The announcer called everyone to the finish line - workers, volunteers, racers, and family, EVERYONE, went to cheer on the final racer.  I was so touched by this mandate to stop what you are doing and show the Rev3 love to this athlete! Many hours followed this final finish to break down the expo and clean up.  At the end of this nearly 19 hour day the crew was still happy and smiling and better for the experience.

Crazy spectators at Swim Start!

Participating in this way has truly changed the way I look at this sport.  We, as athletes, spend so much time (& money) training and preparing to race that it is easy to overlook what happens behind the scenes to create a successful race event.  In the past I have tried to remind myself to thank the race staff/volunteers for helping; in the future I won't have to.  Thank you Revolution 3 for allowing me to be a part of your organization.

Here is an excellent video recapping the AG race! http://youtu.be/RIWH5jmJ5ho