Atkin's first triathlon and bare feet

I want to post these picture of Atkin - even though I haven't posted what I am working on for August (I'll do it soon).  On Saturday, September 17th, Atkin participated in his first sprint triathlon - the Kokopelli Triathlon at Sand Hollow State Park, near Hurricane, Utah.  I drove Sam's bike up to him.  He was in the fastest 10% (my guestimate) of the swimmers in the 40 and under heat, then biked and ran the 5K portion of the race BARE FOOT.  We both recently read "Born to Run" and the part about bare foot racing really stood out to him, so he's been concentrating on it (recommend the book, btw).  He carried his shoes in his hands, just in case, but never needed them.  Atkin's times were: swim 16:43; tranition 3:06; bike 50:13, transition 4:17 and run 30:00 - for a total time of 1:44:17!  He was 13th of 19 for the 20 to 24 age group of men and was 203rd of 393 overall!  Not bad for a first time.  He was there with his former mission companion, Nathan Hixson.  We also saw our friend Steve Tippetts who was competing. 



Setting up transition area



Nathan Hixson and Atkin getting ready

Ready to swim!

Steve Tippetts and Atkin before the race!

Heading for the water

Time to get in!

Chillin' before the start

Nathan Hixson and Atkin waiting for instructions

Racing!

Transition to bike!

Just about to finish the 20K bike ride

Approaching the finish line after the 5K - BARE FOOT

A better look at approaching the finish line after the 5K - BARE FOOT

Very happy about the results and that he was able to run bare foot

No new blisters or scraps - just a little dirty!

Atkin and Nathan Hixson!  Great day!