The Gillens.net

Sarah and I went out to San Francisco (SF) this past weekend so I could “Escape From Alcatraz”. But before I jumped off the boat, we had the opportunity to do some nice sightseeing. We did a leisurely, romantic hike along some coastal bluffs on the Peninsula south of SF. We also drove across the Golden Gate Bridge, braved the strong, chilly winds, and took in some amazing views of the SF skyline, Alcatraz, and the bridge from the Marin Headlands. Then, after driving the bike course, we warmed up by enjoying nice hot clam chowder in a bread bowl on Fisherman’s Wharf. We even squeezed in a quick trip to Ghirardelli Square to buy some chocolate before boarding our 2 hour sunset cruise on the bay. Despite the lack of a true sunset, it was very romantic and a definite highlight of our trip. Believe it or not, this was all on Friday.

Saturday, we slept in and enjoyed a nice big brunch at one of our favorite Bay Area breakfast joints called Hobee’s. Then, we drove back up to SF for the race festival so I could pick up my race packet and goodie bag. After attending the pre-race briefing, Sarah went for a nice jog while I hopped in Aquatic Park for 25 minute practice swim in my wetsuit. Afterwards, we walked around Alamo Square as Sarah had never seen the Painted Ladies.

Sunday was race day. 3 or 4 times during the swim, I’d stop and take in the amazing and incredibly unique perspective of the city skyline, Alcatraz, and the Golden Gate Bridge from water level. Words cannot describe the view or feeling, but these pictures taken from a competitor last year do a pretty good job. The 1500 racers crowded on to a short course with steep hills and pot-holed filled roads made for a tough bike. The run was sheer blast as most of it was run on trails with great views of the coast and Golden Gate Bridge. Overall it was great experience. If you want more details, you can read my full race report here.

This was my first true triathlon adventure and I couldn’t have done it without Sarah’s support. She was absolutely great all weekend. She’d wait with my huge bike case as I’d take care the rental car. She’d drive when I needed to focus on the bike course. She waited in line for me at the festival so I could walk around and see the exhibits. I am truly blessed to have such a wonderful and caring wife, and I never take that for granted.

More pictures here. You can also see a short 30 second video of me crossing the finish line. Click on the broadband link on this page, and then look for me towards the middle to end.

-David