Gary Donath M50-54

san luis obispo, california

Describe your athletic background. I played basketball and tennis in high school and one year of both in college before a pre-med curriculum made it impossible to practice.  I have always enjoyed running but left knee surgery has left me a bit slower.  I enjoy cycling frequently and swimming with a masters group.

How long have you been competing in multi-sport races? Approximately 8 years

What is your favorite product available at TriSports.com? NUUN tablets

How did you get your start in Triathlons? A friend persuaded me to do the Malibu Triathlon in 2000, and from there we began to gradually do longer and tougher races.

What is your favorite workout? Bike dominant brick.  

“When I’m not training/racing, I enjoy…” Surfing, Playing Guitar, Watching my kids swim faster than me!

If you could train for a week with one other triathlete who would it be and why? Natascha Badmann; she has a great accent and always smiles regardless of her effort or pain.

If you could do any triathlon in the World (regardless of monetary restrictions) which one would you do? KONA !!!!!

Describe your biggest race disaster. Ironman CDA 2008. I was feeling great on the bike and set for a PR until about 10 miles into the second loop at the special needs area (mile 66) when another rider stopped suddenly in front of me and I turned abruptly, broke my fork and face-planted. I had a mild concussion, a snapped fork, and my race was over.

Do you have a non-negotiable pre-race ritual? Fish Tacos at Las Olas in San Diego, the day before Ironman California 70.3, every year for 5 years!

What culinary indulgence do you allow yourself after a big race (that you don’t normally partake of)? Coffee Ice Cream  

Have you ever accidentally destroyed a very expensive piece of gear? (For example, have you driven into the garage with a bike on the roof, run over race wheels, etc.) Unfortunately, I have done both.  I destroyed my Kestrel Talon by driving into the garage while it was mounted on my roof rack 4 weeks before Ironman Wisconsin in 2006 and I ran over a Planet X  105 mm Carbon wheel once.

What is the worst job you’ve ever had? Summer of 1977 after 1^st year of college. I planted pineapples in a plantation in Homestead, Florida when it was 105 degrees and 100% humidity. The wet sand was heavy and my back was unhappy. Then we built 5 greenhouses. That was even hotter!

What adjective describes you best? Determined/Stubborn

Finally, do you have any advice for athletes new to multi-sport competition? Find some friends that are experienced and learn how to train and race from them.  Train with friends that have similar goals. Avoid on-line training by coaches who never meet you in person.  Don’t forget to do speed-work. Work on your weaknesses early each season. Make certain that your bike geometry is right for your body.