Jason “Alan” Parker is a 35-39 triathlete age-grouper, from Aberdeen, NC. This is only his second year in triathlon, and he has eight races under his belt, which included two Olympic distance events. He has been drawn in by the pull of the Ironman and is headed to Louisville for the 2011 edition of Ironman Louisville.
TS: What got you interested in triathlon?
JP: I went to the local bike shop to get a new road bike and saw the poster for a local small race and thought to myself, “If I’m actually going to ride this bike, I might as well do that race.” It only took that race, and I was hooked big time!
TS: What is your best discipline (swim/bike/run)?
JP: The bike for sure! Worst is the swim and I just hold my own for the run.
TS: Why do you want to do an Ironman?
JP: It’s a personal goal. I know its going to be a physical test, but for me, the mental aspect may be the toughest.
TS: Why Ironman Louisville?
JP: Well, mainly because it was still open, but I think it will fit my strengths the best. I hoping to do well on the bike and do OK on the run since the course is mostly flat. Also, I believe the weather conditions here in NC will help me prepare for Louisville in August.
TS: What do you expect to be greatest challenges in preparing for IMLOU?
JP: Finding time to get the proper training amount.
TS: What would your best case scenario be on race day?
JP: Since it is my first IM, finishing is the main goal. However, 13 hours or less is my other goal.
TS: What is your most critical piece of equipment for each of the three disciplines?
JP: I know this is not too creative, but I have to say goggles, bike, and running shoes. The bike and shoes are pretty obvious, but I can’t imagine swimming any distance in open water without goggles.
TS: What triathlon professional(s), if any, inspire you?
JP: I am inspired by Jordan Rapp given his ability to overcome his horrific bike accident. Also, a local pro, Justin Park is an inspiration. He is hampered by a heart condition, but still continues to pursue his dream.
TS: Other than Ironman Hawaii, what is a major “bucket list” triathlon on your radar?
JP: There are a couple of races I’ll mention here: Beach 2 Battleship is one that I want to do. It is local to NC, should provide an opportunity to PR, and is less money than M-dot races. I also want to do Showdown at Sundown near Las Vegas. I love the idea of being able to race and sleep in at the same time!
TS: Which would be a better triathlon rig, a classic Big Wheel or strap on roller skates with wooden wheels?
JP: I would choose the big wheel. From what I remember, you kind of have a relaxed seating position. I think that would pay off.
TS: Which would be worse, losing your cycling shoes in T1 or your running shoes inT2?
JP: I think losing the cycling shoes would be worse. There is no way I could ride 112 miles without shoes that match my pedals. It wouldn’t be ideal by any means, but I think I could manage the run (let’s call it a walk) barefoot.
TS: Which is more important, the finisher’s t-shirt, or finisher’s medal?
JP: The finishers medal for sure. I get plenty of t shirts, but I only have one triathlon medal so far.
TS: What song or artist would you love to hear blaring at mile 20 in the Ironman run?
JP: Anything by Guns N Roses!
TS: Who will you contact first to let them know that you are an Ironman?(Given they are not in attendance)
JP: I think most of my immediate family will be in attendance, so I’ll have to call my friend who finished IM CDA (maybe I’ll beat his time!).
Good luck Mr. Jason “Alan” Parker, I’m sure you will be bringing your best effort to IMLOU.
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