Pole Pedal Paddle
I don’t know about you, but yesterday I felt fat, old, and very lazy . . . all this because I was not one of the 2922 participants in this year’s “Pole Pedal Paddle.”
The event, now in its 35th year, besides being one of the highlights of Bend’s social calendar, put individuals and teams (of various ages, shapes, and colors) through a test of six disciplines. It’s sponsored by US Bank and serves as a fundraiser for Mount Bachelor Sports Education Foundation. Just another of the great events here in Bend indicative of our Central Oregon lifestyle.
Alpine Skiing
A 200 foot sprint uphill (usually in outdated, but quick exit, rear-entry ski boots), followed by what can be a rather hairy downhill GS on the Leeway run at Mt. Bachelor. Here’s a clip from the 2010 race.
As per the soundtrack, sometimes the snow can be just a bit “firm” first thing in the morning. Looks a bit like the “Chinese Downhill” from that classic ski film, Hot Dog the Movie.
Nordic
An 8 kilometer jaunt around the Mt. Bachelor Nordic Center. This year’s race featured a ringer–three time Olympian, Kris Freeman. He showed them a thing or two.
Cycling
A 22 mile “downhill” (at least, mostly downhill) cruise (my word) from Mt. Bachelor into Bend.
Running
Now 5 miles is 5 miles . . . still it’s just a little tougher to jump off the bike with quads burning, transition into running shoes . . . then set off immediately uphill to Braeburn, before returning along the Deschutes River Trail to Riverbend Park.
Paddling
A one and a half mile course through the center of Bend on the Deschutes River; it included both up and downstream legs. A variety of approved craft were used . . . ranging from speedy streamlined surf skis to the economy-based unit pictured here.
I get fatigued just looking at this photo!
Sprinting
Finish it up with an 800 meter dash from the river to the Les Schwab Amphitheater.
The Winners . . . Pole Pedal Paddle
As I’ve said in the past, to me, anyone who participates in the Pole Pedal Paddle a winner. But, for the record, the elite men’s and women’s winners for this year were Kris Freeman (1:46.00) and Stephanie Howe (2:01.05).
Now, relax and search anonymously for homes in Bend.
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