September 2007 Athlete Profile- alan macdougall

Athlete Of The Month Profile

1. Name   alan macdougall
2. How long have you been training for and racing in triathlon? I did my first triathlon in 1995, which was sadly the Southington Tri. But I've only been racing since 2001.
3. What is your favorite aspect of the sport? Doing an Ironman race. I enjoy the long training, but there is nothing else (in sport) which quite lives up to being in an IM race. Once I get out of the water, that, that is.
4. What do you consider your biggest athletic achievement? Cracking mentally and/or physically at Ironman Arizona but still finishing- running the last five miles.
5. What are your big goals?  I'd like to do two Ironman races in one year- something and Florida, and something and Hawaii. Learn to swim.
6. What’s your favorite meal? Isn't everyone's favourite meal sushi ? I also like cheesy stuffed baked potatoes and fried clams.
7. What’s your favorite movie?  Highlander.
8. Any other hobbies? Collecting iPods. History.
9. Where is the best place you have visited? Either London or Nova Scotia. But Lake Placid and Block Island are on the short list. So Is Panama City Beach- I really enjoy being down there for the Ironman. As you can tell from this rapidly expanding lists there's lots of cool places. I think it comes down to what you do and where you feel comfortable.
10. If you could visit one place this year, where would it be?  Lake Placid.
11. What are your favorite workouts? 2 hour ride, 30 minute run, the time trial I do when I'm pressed for time and need a short, hard workout (two Hammerfest loops), and in the winter, the Uphill Grind.
12. Who’s your inspiration? I got started racing because Margit was racing. I'll always be the second best triathlete in the family, at least until Ian learns how to ride a two-wheeler.           
13. If you could train with one person for a day, who would it be? Hods. I've had my hardest rides and my most challenging runs with that guy. I remember chasing Eric down a hill one time in big-ring 11. I looked at my heart rate and it was 160 !
14. What three things would you bring with you if you were to be dropped on a deserted Island (not counting family)? Wetsuit, goggles, and waterproof sea charts.
15. Any other words of wisdom? Intensity without patience makes for a bad race. Eat on the bike or die on the run, your choice. Listen to your coach, he knows more than you do.

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