Mike Arena M35-39

cupertino, california

If you could train for a week with one other triathlete who would it be and why?  Natasha Badman.  I would LOVE to learn how she keeps that attitude and that smile through the most grueling races.

Describe your biggest race disaster.   My first triathlon ever - Wildflower Long Course, 2001.  I had NO idea how far in over my head I was.   Took my first ever wetsuit out of the factory plastic bag the night before the race, had it on inside-out in transition race morning, completely unprepared for 97 degree temps, had no idea what I was doing for nutrition or hydration.  Not surprisingly, that was also my first I.V. ever (and my second).   Everyone needs to have a rookie day like that to look back on!

Do you have a non-negotiable pre-race ritual?  Have to pet a dog before every race.  Puppies seem to give the best luck, but any dog will do in a pinch. 

What culinary indulgence do you allow yourself after a big race (that you don’t normally partake of)?  An Oreo Blizzard from Dairy Queen.  I can map out the nearest Dairy Queen to any race I have done.  Finding the nearest DQ is part of my pre-race preparation in the days leading up to the event!

What is the worst job you’ve ever had?  Having newspaper routes as a 13 year old kid in obnoxiously cold Wisconsin winters.

Finally, do you have any advice for athletes new to multi-sport competition?  Balance, balance, balance.  Sometimes life gets in the way of triathlon.  But Don't let triathlon get in the way of life.