Race Coverage

"...Exactly What Early-Season Races Are For."...

Sunday, 24 May 2026 00:10

Photo: Nick and a random dog.

By Nick Jasmer

Morris Tinman Olympic Triathlon – Race Recap

- Overall Time: 1:49:01 (PR at this event)

- Overall Place: 4th Overall / 1st AG

- Swim: 15:41 (1:26/100y), Bike: 49:47 (22.9 mph), Run: 41:18 (6:40/mi)

Conditions: Cool, sunny start with temps rising throughout, about as perfect as you can ask for on race day.

Pre-Race & Competition: The Tinman, for me, served as an early-season benchmark, less about peak performance and more about assessing fitness and identifying areas to improve. But, I also wanted to show up and be competitive. Coming in, I knew the front of the race would be stacked. Micah, Spencer, and Sam were all racing, and each of them has proven they can push the pace at a high level....

I had raced Micah and Spencer before, so I knew exactly what I was up against. Sam, though, was new to me. After connecting pre-race, it was clear right away he was not only a great guy but also someone who was going to be a factor once the race started.

Swim: Controlled Aggression

All four of us ended up in the same heat, heat #2, splitting lanes: Micah and Spencer together, Sam and I sharing a lane. Right from the start, Sam and I settled into a strong rhythm, swimming side-by-side for the first few laps.

Using my FORM goggles, I could see we were rolling at about 1:15/100y pace, this was fast, actually really fast for me, actually too fast for me. For a moment, I thought I could hold it. Reality set in pretty quickly. I made the decision to back it down slightly and settle into a sustainable effort rather than risk blowing up this early.

That adjustment paid off. I exited the water in 15:41, feeling strong and composed, even though I knew the other three had already made their way out.

Bike: Staying in the Fight

Heading into T1, I caught a glimpse of Sam and realized the gap wasn’t massive. That gave me a target. Once on the bike, I focused on getting up to speed quickly and settling into a strong, steady effort. Early on, I glanced back and noticed a rider with a white helmet slowly closing the gap. Turns out............. It was Sam! That caught me off guard since I had seen him ahead coming out of transition. Later I learned he had missed a turn but still managed to reel me back in and go straight past. Impressive, to say the least. 

At that point, the mindset was simple: stay steady, stay strong, and keep him within reach. I rode a solid 49:47 (22.9 mph), setting myself up for what I hoped would be a strong run, or at least that is what I was hoping for.

Run: The Honest Test

The plan was to chase. The reality? My legs had other ideas. From the start of the run, I just couldn’t quite find that next gear. It felt like the engine was there, but the legs never fully showed up, like they were still back at the hotel sleeping. I could see Sam ahead and tried to gradually close the gap, but every time I asked for more, the response just wasn’t there. Despite that, I stayed consistent and brought it home in 41:18 (6:40 pace). Not the run I wanted, or know that I am capable of, but an honest one, and an important data point this early in the season.

Takeaways & Perspective:

Overall, I’m really happy with this race: a PR at this event, 1st in AG, 4th overall, and the 10th fastest time in Tinman Olympic history. The swim and bike were right where they needed to be. The run exposed an area to sharpen, and that’s exactly what early-season races are for. Now, it's time to take what I learned at the Tinman, continue to improve my strengths and strengthen my weaknesses.

More than anything, races like this remind me how strong the Minnesota triathlon community is. Competing against athletes like Micah, Spencer, and Sam elevates everyone on the start line. Huge congrats to Micah on the overall win and course record, and to Spencer (2nd place overall) and Sam (3rd place overall) for outstanding races. And to everyone who showed up, whether you were racing for the podium or just to finish and enjoy the beautiful day, you’re a part of what makes this sport so special.

Final Thoughts:

At the end of the day, it’s not just about times and places. It’s about the people, the competition, and the shared experience of pushing limits. Grateful for the opportunity to race, improve, and be part of this community. And a big thank you to the race organizers and volunteers, none of this happens without you.

Till next time!