A:  Ray Liuzzo - Malta

A:  42

A:  Land Surveyor at C.T. Male Associates

A:  Since 2008

A:  12 Weeks (plus 2 seasons of spin classes)

A:  So far it has to be the Timberman 70.3 in NH. I enjoyed being able to meet and race with the pros and at the end have Chrissie Wellington put the medal around my neck. I can think of no other sport that allows average athletes like me to race along-side of the world champions.

A:  My Cervelo P2 Tri Bike. Love it.

A:  I’ve done three Half IM’s so far and have been able to take a half an hour off of my time for each one. My first one did leave me with LOTS of room for improvement. Lake Placid IM coming up – so stay tuned.

A:  My goal this year is to finish Ironman Lake Placid strong (my first full 140.6) - time TBD. I’d also like to be in the top 25% of some of the other races I’ve entered this year as well. (Hudson Crossing, North Country, Fronhofer & Big George)

A:  I’d like to place in my age group at some point in my career. I’m hooked on this sport so I’d like to stay healthy and keep doing this for years to come.

A:  Peanut butter, eggs and a juicy steak (not all together of course).

A:  I’m a child of 70’s & 80’s rock, so old stuff that makes my kids cringe. Boston, Crosby Stills, Nash & Young, U2, Van Halen, and a bunch of one hit wonders.

A:  Specialize, no. I like Olympic distance the best with a Half IM thrown in to prove my mettle.

A:  Don’t be afraid to try it. Try longer distances and learn from every race. There is no such thing as a bad race or workout, just a great learning experience.

A:  If you get caught in a tough swim concentrate on exhaling completely. I started to hyperventilate once at the start of the North Country Tri because the water was choppy and cold. I wish I had this tip beforehand.

A:  I really enjoy Kevin’s spin classes in his garage (The Sweat Box) over the winter. Another favorite of mine is a mid distance group ride. 75 miles is enough to know you’ve done something substantial as well as a good time to get a bit of “race you to the stop sign” in. I’ve been told I turn into an 8-year old when I’m on a group ride.

A:  Enjoy the journey and keep the pedal to the metal!