Name: Dennis Hughes
Age: 58
Occupation: Physical Education Teacher/Basketball & Volleyball Coach
Years doing triathlon? 6
First Triathlon? High Rock Sprint (at Dan Nichols Park – drought that year) in 2003, but I was truly hooked after High Point Sprint in 2014.
Your favorite triathlon? The last one and the next one! I have completed all six High Point Sprints.
Meal the night before race? Varies; however, I eat light and stay clear of red meat, salads and anything dairy. AND REFRIED BEANS!
Pre-Race Meal? Typically oatmeal or a granola/energy bar, a banana and water.
Race Nutrition? Water (NBS), SIS gels, BLOKS chews, and PAYDAY bars (Thanks, Ralph!)
Favorite motivational training song? Anything with an energetic beat! Tom Petty’s “Runnin’ Down a Dream” sums it up!
Favorite mantra? Come on! (Always repeating that when I’m struggling) Good times!
Key Workout? All of them! Training sessions with my TTT teammates, especially Jason and Keith! Runs on cold (no wind) winter days and any run in a light, steady rain – just me and the elements.
Best Triathlon training or racing tip? Listen to your body! Regarding open water swims: Start in the back, relax and ease into a steady rhythm. Race your race!
Triathlon literature or other sources of information? USA Triathlon magazine and the expertise of my talented TTT teammates!
Who inspires you? Athletes who accomplish extraordinary feats I cannot fathom and athletes who overcome adversities I cannot imagine. My wife, Sharon!
Future goal or bucket list race? Like everyone, I want to improve in all three disciplines of the sport. Since I knocked off a 70.3, complete an IRONMAN, but the bucket is empty at the moment!