MIKE MULLINS, M25-29

ames, iowa

Occupation: Lab technician / PhD student

How long have you been competing in multi-sport races?  2008 will be my 5^th year in multisport.  I started running in 2002.

What is your favorite product available at TriSports.com? 2008 Guru Chrono custom bicycle (does Santa read this list? I need a new bike!).

How did you get your start in Triathlons?  First, I had to learn how to swim.  Then, I had to learn how to swim in a straight line. Actually, I’m still working on number two…

What is your favorite workout? The long Saturday am bike ride followed by a good hard one hour run. (Followed by a huge lunch and a long nap.)

“When I’m not training/racing, I enjoy…” Watching “Ninja Warrior” on G4.  Transitions would be so much more exciting with obstacles.  

If you could have one superhero power what would it be? Three words: kung fu grip.

Describe your biggest race disaster.  Oh, there have been so many…where to begin?  My friend told me that if 80% of his adventures don’t end in complete disaster then he isn’t setting his sights high enough. I think that’s a pretty good attitude to have in regards to racing – go all out and see what happens. Pre would approve.

Do you have a non-negotiable pre-race ritual? Just before the race starts, I like to recite the following mantra: “Where’d I rack my bike?  Where’d I rack my bike?”  I find it soothing.  ;)

What culinary indulgence do you allow yourself after a big race (that you don’t normally partake of)? Do kegstands count as a culinary indulgence? 

What is the worst job you’ve ever had? I worked at a soap factory for one day. It was about as much fun as it sounds. 

Finally, do you have any advice for athletes new to multi-sport competition? You don’t need a fancy bike to do tri...but getting one will make you much more excited about going for that long training ride.