Bike shop hosts free triathlon clinic

Pregnant with her fifth child in 2002, Janice Brod was hesitant to train for her first triathlon. Knowing the level of athleticism of her competitors, she wondered if she should even enter.

But she did, and fell in love with the three-sport competition. By 2006, she had become the Xterra World age group champion at the age of 35.

"It's something I've accomplished and I'm proud of," she said. "But I'm not intimidating at all."

Rather, she hopes to share her knowledge with budding triathletes at a free workshop Saturday at the newly opened Bike Carson Tahoe.

Along with shop owner Chris Huber, former professional cyclist and U.S. National champion, she will share tips on transition set up, nutrition, clothing, strategy, bike handling and any other topics that come up.

"I've learned a lot through all of my races," she said. "I have some good pointers people can benefit from. I totally would have gone to something like this if it had been available."

The clinic will be focused on the upcoming Iron Girl Triathlon in Lake Tahoe on Sept. 18. However, Brod said, all interested triathletes are welcome.

After the clinic, Brod and Huber will lead a 15-mile road ride around Franktown Road.

That's something Huber would like to see more of in the future.

"I'll be organizing some continuing training programs and leading some rides out of here," he said. "It's a good way to reach out to people to keep everyone enthused and to stay enthused yourself."

The shop, which specializes in high-end road and mountain bikes, will also be offering bike rentals, tune-ups and fittings.

To schedule a bike fit in advance of the clinic, call Huber at (808) 936-3762. Cost is $40 for a basic fit and takes about an hour.

Brod encouraged first-time triathletes along with more seasoned competitors to attend the clinic. But beyond technique and strategy, she said, the real motivation should be the joy that comes with accomplishment.

"It's very rewarding to have achieved something like that," she said. "And it's just fun. I wouldn't do it if I didn't have fun."