When we last reported on Simon Lessing he was seated on the curb behind the LA Triathlon finish line undecided about whether to extend his race streak for another week for the Pacific Grove Triathlon. L.A. Triathlon was Simon's fifth race in 6 weeks. He decided to go.   At Pacific Grove, a draft legal Olympic distance race, Simon was challenged, at least vocally, by a team of 4 Americans out to prove that they could beat Simon with team work. In the first mile of the bike Simon decided to test that theory and simply rode away from the team (and the pack containing the team) in short order. With a 1:45 lead off the bike Lessing cruise-controlled the run for a 2:24 win.

The streak is now over but let the record reflect that Lessing raced six races in 7 weeks, winning three, finishing second twice and one 4th Place. Since June 1st Lessing raced 10 times, including drafting and non-drafting formats, winning 6 of those races. Lessing will race twice more - Treasure Island Triathlon (San Francisco) and Hainan Discovery Triathlon (China) -- before shutting it down for the year. 

"I asked Simon if he could schedule a race or two in our target markets," commented American InterBanc.com's President, Mike Dannelley, but I never thought he'd go out of his way to organize his schedule like he did! We've just reached an agreement to extend our sponsorship agreement with Simon and are thrilled about it - especially since Simon has committed to racing Ironman Hawaii next year, our newest market!"

"I've done everything there is to do at the shorter distances" said Lessing. "Its time to move up and from this point forward it will be about trying to win Ironman Hawaii. I haven't decided where I'll qualify but I'm looking forward to the challenge and the change. Certainly I won't be racing as often next year!"

Lessing's long distance experience includes two appearances at the Nice Triathlon in the early 90's. In his first effort there (1993) he caught Mark Allen from behind and then ran shoulder to shoulder with Allen until deep in to the run when Mark finally got away. In 1995 he convincingly won the World Long Distance Championship at Nice. 

"I'd still like to race the Olympics next summer", said Lessing. "The hilly bike course in Athens suits me and if the requirements to make the British team aren't too onerous I'll be there."

CHARITY AUCTION
Peter Reid and Lori Bowden are auctioning off their Kona race suit/race singlet to support their favorite charities. Browse www.Peterreid.com and www.LoriBowden.com to bid.

TRIATHLON TV

THE ROAD TO IRONMAN:
NBC Sports
Saturday, Oct. 11 3-4pm EST
This is a reality style show where three age-group Ironman athletes were housed together in Kona with pros WENDY INGRAHAM and CHRIS LEGH. Away from the distractions of everyday life, the age-groupers were given the chance to eat, sleep and breathe Ironman. Competitiveness combines with camaraderie as they juggle separation from family, friends, home and work to drive themselves beyond their limits. Ingraham and Legh try to provide advice and perspective to the age-groupers.

HSBC Ironman USA Lake Placid
ESPN2
Sunday, October 12-3 p.m-
Heather Fuhr wins her 4th USA Title