Seth Botwick M35-39

holly springs, north carolia

What is your favorite product available at TriSports.com? 2XU Calf Guards – they really work – buy some!  I overheat in a normal wet suit so the Desoto Speedtube 5 pants and Speedvest work very well. If it’s hot I just wear the Speedtube pants.

How did you get your start in Triathlons? I’ve been swimming competitively most of my life. I also had a big interest in bikes early. I started with BMX bikes then moved to mountain bikes. After running a few marathons a friend convinced me to put it all together. It’s been a love affair ever since. Thanks Carol!

What is your favorite workout? I just started coaching my 12yr old son in swimming. We get in and crank off 2000 yards together. Right now that’s my favorite. He’ll be the next Trisports.com athlete in the family.

“When I’m not training/racing, I enjoy…” Doing NOTHING!!!!  I’m a real couch potato.

If you could train for a week with one other triathlete who would it be and why? Probably my coach and best friend Bones. We always have the best time being stupid and he pushes me until I’m a drooling, cross eyed, bonk boy.

If you could do any triathlon in the World (regardless of monetary restrictions) which one would you do? Whichever race is downhill the whole way

Describe your biggest race disaster. I bonked last year really bad at the White Lk Half. It was my first truly flat bike course. At mile ½ I felt like a Belgian pretzel. I had to walk / run the whole 13 miles. I’m going to get that course back one of these days!

Do you have a non-negotiable pre-race ritual? I walk the swim exit slowly, memorizing the rough spots. I also clear any debris I find. I’m a tender foot.

What culinary indulgence do you allow yourself after a big race (that you don’t normally partake of)?  I love eating a big breakfast with all the fixins after a big race. Pancakes, eggs, grits, bacon, orange juice, and real maple syrup.

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.) I did the bike vs. garage thing but it was my wife’s bike so it was ok

What is the worst job you’ve ever had? 4am stock boy. I did not like the people I worked with

What adjective describes you best? Loyal or maybe determined, either one.

Finally, do you have any advice for athletes new to multi-sport competition?  Take it “smooth”!! I had to learn restraint and for me that was the most difficult. My swim ego said I should win the swim but my bike and run always suffered. Triathlon is a delicate recipe – train too hard in one and something else suffers. Get a coach!