The Intent Duathlon is a great event held in Tinley Park Illinois. It is a two mile run, eleven mile bike ride and then a two mile run. It is an event that gives it proceeds to a great organization that helps people in need called Together We Cope. The race is a great event for both the beginner, intermediate exerciser and serious athlete. The run segments are one mile out and one mile out. The bike course is 11 miles with rolling hills and a course that goes from Oak Forest Avenue to Lincoln Highway back to Oak Forest Avenue.

I have had the opportunity to do this race for eight years. And every year I am in the midst of it and I always know I will do it again. I love the fact that I get to see things that typically drive by I get to see all close and personal on Central Avenue. I also like the fact that you get to see the elites and the ordinary athletes and give them support on their journey as well. I have seen various organization run the race such as Metlife, Race Around the World, Tri Smart and Running Excells. This year it was interesting to see the changes with Intent.

First of all they had an expo and seminars. Then at the end of the race they really had a generous after party complete with lots of food, with a very good DJ that was engaging and a award ceremony complete with a stage celebrating first, second and third place winners in five year gaps. They also had awards for teams as well.

I also liked the security of not only marking the arms but the bike and the racks that easily fit the bike. I did appreciate seeing the race director out on the course, greeting the people and making her presence known.

The bike racks with plenty of space for each bike made it easy for finding it after your run leg. They also had the places numbered. That really helped with transition.

Some things they made want to visit for next year are the following. First of all the packet pick up I thought was slow and they could of made the process faster by doing the safety forms online, during the bike portion in years past they had markers for 1/4, 1/2 and 3/4 and at the finish they ran out of water.

I definitely will be back next year. It is one of those races I enjoy every summer!