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The Escape From Alcatraz triathlon
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Escape From Alcatraz Swimmers
The Escape From Alcatraz triathlon is the granddaddy of San Francisco Bay Area triathlons and one of the most exciting in the world. On Sunday June 14, 2,000 triathletes from all over the world will cram into a boat and jump like paratroopers into the frigid waters of the San Francisco Bay. Many will be veterans of several Escapes. What continues to attract the veterans?
The answer lies in the currents of the San Francisco Bay. Sometimes these waters may be kind and carry the swimmers to their destination. At other times, the waters may be angry and decide to fight those who dare invade them. The only sure thing is that no two swims in the San Francisco Bay are ever alike.
Those who reach the shore may feel like escaped convicts dragging a ball and chain as the cold water has turned their legs into popsicles. Rather than immediately mount a bike as in most triathlons, these escapees are given the opportunity to run a mile to warm up.
Upon reaching their bikes, they must forget about what happened during the 1.4 miles in the bay and concentrate on bicycling 18 miles of hills, twists and turns. As they pedal back to the Marina Green, they may start to feel like Superman. But while Superman only had to change into a cape and tights, these triathletes must be able to change their cycling muscles into running muscles.
The legs feel awkward at first but eventually they adapt midway through Crissy Field. Just as the triathletes again start to feel like Superman, they encounter the Sand Ladder of Baker Beach, 400 wooden logs up a sheer cliff of sand. No one goes up this ladder in a single bound, many might feel like Superman on kryptonite. No one is ashamed to be seen grabbing the hand cable to get up and over the ladder.
Once over the ladder, it is back to the Marina Green where a cheering crowd helps pump the adrenaline for a triumphant finish.
Who will escape this year? We will interview professional triathletes Andy Potts and Leanda Cave , who are both attempting a three-peat championship. And we will also interview some age groupers who have already made some great escapes. Stay tuned...
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