Morgan Chaffin-Back to Racing!

Roughly 2 months ago I had hip arthroscopic surgery and it wasn't long until I felt like I could start training again, but I didn't think I would be racing in July! On Sunday, just outside of St. Louis I participated in the King Orthopedic Newtown Triathlon (1000 yd swim, 20 mi bike, 4 mi run). I felt ready, but knew I was going to need to back off if my hip was irritated at all. I knew I was going to have to build a lead in the swim and bike if I wanted to hold my position in the run. The water temp was 85 and I opted to use my Xterra Velocity-M speedsuit. I took an Immunotec Energy Shot got in for a quick warm up and I was ready to go! I swam the 1000 yd in 13:17 and was the second male/female elite wave competitor out of the water. I held my position on the bike and covered the 20 mile bike in 49:08 (24.1 mph)—I love my new QR CD 0.1 and with HED wheels it fly's! Off the bike I had a 6 minute lead over the next female and luckily it was a good cushion because she is All-American in the 800m and super fast. I ran 6:47 pace over the 4 miles in Karhu Racer Ride shoes. I have never worn racing shoes before and I really liked the lightness. Thanks Swim Bike Run St.Louis for the new kicks! I finish 1st overall female and 2nd overall with the men. I scored some cash and new running shoes too!

My coach recently opened a Triathlon Store called Swim, Bike, Run St. Louis and they were all there cheering me on—cowbells and all! It really pumped me up to go out there and leave nothing! It was great to have their support. If your ever in the STL area and need anything tri related-it's your store!

A special thanks to: Swim Bike Run St. Louis Triathlon Store, Phoenix Cycles in Carbondale, IL (the go to bike guru's in Southern Illinois), Immunotec, Champion Systems, Rudy Project, Xterra, QR, Accelerade, Saluki Masters Swimming

Next up I'm heading back to my home state of Nebraska and doing an inspirational talk and competing in the Omaha Triathlon on July 24. It's going to be great to get back and see family and friends!