Beiträge

Alpen-Triathlon

On a particular torrentially rainy summer Sunday in June, the roads, lakes and mountain sides were taken over by an army of beautifully functioning human machines.  Have you guessed yet what my overly dramatized description might be about?  Yes, on this day the Schliersee Alpen Triathlon was held.  The whole event was an amazing array of sheer determination, extensive training and down right guts of steel.  Despite horrendous weather conditions, slippery roads, massive rain drops and cold temperatures, these lycra clad athletes competed valiantly against themselves and the clock.  Truly awe inspiring for this photographer.

It your ever lucky enough to be in Schliersee during the triathlon and are looking for motivation for your own physical fitness or are a fan of watching the triumph of the human spirit, don’t miss this event.  It kicks off along Schliersee lake near Kurpark Schliersee.  Right where the tour boat docks.  There are free shuttle busses which will take you to Spitzingsee so you can catch the cyclists as they finish their perilous climb up to the saddle only then to race back down into the tiny village of Spitzingsee where to drop their bikes and begin their long run.

The atmosphere is electric.  Between the athletes, their families cheering them on and all the many smiling support staff handing out drinks and recovery food.  I have to admit my favorite part of this very “alpine” of Alpen triathlon was the finish line.  As the runners came across and received their medals then grabbed a beer and a plate of freshly made steaming hot Kaiserschmarrn.  How’s that for recovery food!  The atmosphere is electric and an event not to be missed for sure.

The link to the triathlon:
http://schliersee-alpentriathlon.com

To find out more about triathlons in the area:
http://www.wechselszene.com/wettkampfe/schliersee-alpen-triathlon

 

Laura Boston-Thek

American artist, photographer and professional wanderer who, after 20 years of roaming, put down roots in a 100 year old Bavarian farmhouse and fell in love with the Alpine village and its residents (both 2-legged and 4-legged).