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Sports

Spring training has become high tech

By JESSICA FISH
Published March 16, 2005

Spring training for cyclists and triathletes consists of more than tallying up mileage in logs.

Riders say they are downloading data from heart-rate monitors into their personal computers. Runners analyze readings from GPS watches. High tech has merged with triathlon and cycling training, and locals say this is only the beginning.

Florida Bicycle Sports Team coaches Matt Moss and Brian Cowan have found space in downtown St.Petersburg, using it as a ride-gathering place and training center to test VO2 max, lactate levels and the power of pedal cadence.

Florida SUN Masters Swimming Team coach Joe Biondi of Clearwater regularly analyzes swim strokes for area triathletes, advising them on the most efficient way to make it across the bay for the St.Anthony's Triathlon.

USAT Level I coach Matt Hess of Tri3Racing Online unveiled a few training tools, previously unheard of, during last week's triathlon seminar and autograph signing with professional Ironman champion Wendy Ingraham of Walnut Creek, Calif.

Hess, 34, of Clearwater, is mentoring Palm Harbor University student Graham Steel , and Hess is pushing the envelope of conventional thinking. Steel, 15, who is nearly undefeated on the local junior triathlon circuit, has gained strength after adopting methods used by hockey players in Canada. Methods such as using a weighted vest during track and swimming sessions.

"Graham will go to the Olympics someday, there's no question about that," Hess said. "Training tools help, and you have to have an open mind about new methods. But the raw talent is there with Graham."

YMCA CLINIC: A clinic to plan triathlon training and the annual Palm Harbor Branch YMCA Giving Campaign is scheduled for 1-4:30 p.m. Sunday at the Palm Harbor Branch. All levels of triathletes are welcome. Proceeds will benefit the campaign.

To register or for information, e-mail srklar@gte.net or call 727 451-7220.

GOODLIFE GAMES: Cyclists 50-and-older have something to focus on Sunday. Goodlife Games events, organized by the St.Petersburg Bicycle Club and St.Pete Mad Dogs, are set at Fort DeSoto Park. The director is Dr. Kathleen Fitzgerald . The 5-kilometer and 10K time trials have been relocated from downtown St.Petersburg to the old race venue at Fort DeSoto. For the first time, officials will allow raceday registration. The event starts at 9 a.m. To volunteer or for information, e-mail Kathleen.Fitzgerald@goodlifegames.org or call 727 531-3532.

SPRING CLASSIC: St.Petersburg Bicycle Club members will play host to the 17th annual event April 3 in Bradenton. Hundreds of cyclists will gather at 8 a.m. on the roads directly behind the Lost Kangaroo Pub, 427 12th St. W. Rides will consist of 25, 35 and 60 miles. There will be a post-ride party, and proceeds benefit The American Cancer Society. For information, go online to www.stpetecycling.com or call 727 510-9098 or 866-1239.

TIME TRIALS: Florida Bicycle Sports Team members will present the Thursday Night 10-Mile Time Trial Series at 6:30 on April 7 at Fort DeSoto Park. The event is part of the Florida Point Series. For information, call 727 823-7775 or go online to www.floridabicyclesports.com

[Last modified March 16, 2005, 01:32:17]