The Edwards Aquathon was scheduled as a 1k swim followed by a 5k run. However, it took place at 4:30 pm in August in the Mojave Desert, where the temperature typically ranges between 100-110°F at that time of day. Fortunately, it was “only” 100°F on race day, but this was due to the humidity and the threat of thunderstorms.
The race was delayed due to the thunderstorms. Eventually, the organizers decided to start with the run and see if the weather would clear up. Around 4:45, we began the run. If you know me, you know I don’t enjoy running in extremely dry heat. The lack of humidity causes your sweat to evaporate before it can cool you down. The intense California sun and lack of shade made it feel even hotter. Strava often picks up the temperature from Santa Clarita, which isn’t always accurate.
Aquathon Race:
The race started with a simple “go,” and off we went. Races on military bases are typically low-key, and this one had about 15 participants. We had no clue if we would be able to do the swim portion. I didn’t push too hard and averaged about 7:45 per mile for the first loop. I carried my water bottle filled with 2XDrip Drops, but my body was cramping from the heat.
At the end of the run, the fitness manager announced we could swim now. I, along with everyone else, thought the run course was short and expected it to be a 2-mile run. I wasn’t complaining; it was hot. When he said, “Now go swim,” I ran straight into the pool, quickly shedding my running clothes. I had never been happier to jump into the water. I finished the run in third place and entered the pool in second place. I probably had the best transition time of anyone because I sprinted to the pool out of sheer joy.
My goggles filled with water the entire time, likely due to loosening in my swim bag. I love Form Goggles, but they weren’t helping me this time. I stopped a few times to adjust them and still managed to pass the person in first place, gaining about 75 meters on them. I finished the swim in just over 16 minutes. I asked the lifeguard if we were done, and he said yes. I lingered, then asked if I could cool down, and he said yes again. However, he ended up radioing the head lifeguard and found out we had another lap to go.
By that time, the second-place person had gotten out of the pool and was heading towards the run. I quickly put on my socks, shoes, and clothes (since running around a military base in a bathing suit wasn’t ideal). I was only 5-10 seconds behind the first-place person, but I couldn’t catch up. I ended up running a 7:05 pace for the second 2 miles, which I’m proud of.
I finished about 20 seconds behind the first place. But I’m most proud of actually running at that time of day. Will I run every day at that time now? No, but I am proud to have done it.
Aquathon Thoughts:
Does this mean I’ll do a triathlon now? LOL, no. I’ve done many Aquathons and I would do another one if it was offered. This was a fun event and a fun workout.
You can see Strava here and more race recaps here.
Questions for you:
Have you done an Aquathon?
What is the hottest you’ve ever run?