Sunday, May 16, 2010 saw the second annual Toga Spring Duathlon in Congers, NY. Organized by Toga Multisport (associated with the well known NYC area Toga Bikes) the race consisted of a 5K run, 25k bike, and 5K run around the inner and outer loops of scenic Rockland Lake State Park. In only its second year and perhaps under the shadow of some larger NYC based events, I was hesitant to attend due to concerns about race organization and support, but was very pleasantly surprised by the experience. If all smaller community races went this smoothly, well…they wouldn’t be that small.
For starters, the race was very well organized. Packet pick-up and race day registration was a breeze. Friendly volunteers (of which there were plenty) were even there to help strap on your timing chip and pin on your race number. The event directions were very clear – we were given a pre-race rundown of the course, informed of exactly when and where to set up transition and reminded of proper race etiquette (i.e. no drafting, helmet on before touching bike, no riding in transition, etc.) Being a smaller event, I estimated about 100 participants, late racers were afforded a few extra minutes to prepare and make it to the start line. These small touches made the race very conducive for first-timers or those with only a few races under their belts.
Also noteworthy, was the large amount of volunteers. Many of my fellow racers were surprised and excited to see so many volunteers on course. Being handed water by two “cute-as-a-button” 5-year old sisters competing to see who could give out more water on the run course quickly made me forget the giant blister consuming my heel. Other (adult!) volunteers were on hand to offer directional support and words of encouragement. Too many races are stocked with volunteers who make it apparent that they would rather be elsewhere; the Toga organizers appeared to have done a great job recruiting folks actually interested in making the race a great community event. Mechanical support was also available via a Toga bike support vehicle.
The course consisted of a 5k loop of the very scenic Rockland Lake, 4 loops of the outer road around the park (25K), and a final 5k loop to the finish line. All parts of the course were clearly marked and local police were on hand to help direct traffic to keep riders safe. My only concern about the course was that the bike course did have a few small patches of potholes and sand. Definitely not a major concern, but something to be conscious of. There weren’t any life changing views but the environment was quiet and enjoyable.
The only other negative of the day was that there was a shortage of pre-race swag (although I now love my size XL technical-T which I have transformed into a Snuggie). This, however, is easily forgiven considering the experience.
Course: B A scenic run and bike course with only a few rough patches. The run portions were mostly flat while the bike course offered a few small hills and plenty of flats. Those that don’t like loops may find the four bike loops a little monotonous but (on the positive side) it gave athletes the ability to learn the course and increase efficiency throughout the race. There weren’t any awe-inspiring vistas but extra points are awarded due to the fact that it’s all contained within Rockland State Park, avoiding most traffic concerns.
Organization: A- Staffed by enthusiastic volunteers, race results posted within minutes and plenty of support. Very well run, despite the shortage of t-shirts/hats.
Atmosphere: B+ If there is a good example of a community event, this is it. Positive attitudes all around, medals for all finishers and a large amount of awards contributed to the “all are welcome” atmosphere. That being said, if you’re looking for an ultra competitive vibe you might be let down. Extra points though for the coconut water at the finish!
Logistics: A Plenty of parking and clean facilities. Transition was spacious and well organized. Can’t comment on accommodations as lengthy travel wasn’t required, although one could argue that our coach having us bike there and back from NYC was more than plenty!
Overall: B+ I went into the day with low expectations because smaller races have the tendency to not have enough volunteers or are not well organized, but my expectations were far exceeded at the Toga Spring Duathlon. It was a terrific experience that can accommodate novices as well as seasoned racers. If you’re looking for a solid local event to get some firsthand racing experience this could be it. It’s got all the fun of a race, without the pressure of a high profile event. Definitely recommended and I’m looking forward to the Toga Fall Duathlon!
-Betsy & Adrian
Comments
Another good race write-up, Adrian (and Betsy)! Also, note that results were posted on-line promptly.
Based on your comments (“terrific experience”) and my own experience at the race, I probably would have given them an overall A, rather than a B+. Bigger is not necessarily better. What would you have wanted to be different to give them a higher overall grade?
I have to admit, I’m a very tough reviewer. I would say that a race would have to be absolutely stellar and flawless to receive an A or A+. If I could change something about the Duathlon race it would be the course. 4 loops were a bit monotonous for me and though nice, there was nothing truly remarkable about it. For an A, I want a course to truly “wow” me and leave me wishing I didn’t have to wait another year (or in this case months) to race it again. All said, it was a great event and I had a blast.