Ming Tomb Road Course

We had our first day of practice on the full road course for the hand-cyclists. The course incorporates elements from the Olympic triathlon course. It is located at the Ming Tomb Reservoir.

I have been meeting physical therapists from around the world. Most of the world calls physical therapists, physiotherapists.

Today was hot and somewhat humid. Hydration strategies for all athletes are a must. First day on this course helps establish familiarity with corner, climbs and descents. There are hardly any straight sections on the course, so it may help a possible breakaway stay away.

This was also our first day to try out the Paralympic mass transit system to the venue. We previously had been renting a bus for private shuttle. Now it is a little more challenging trying to get the team all placed on a bus to ensure they get the venue. All in all, the transportation has been great. It is challenging to move all types of disabled athletes, wheelchairs and racing chairs. The Chinese have been very helpful.

All the participating teams are assigned tents/shelters at the Reservoir. The USA team gets a “double wide” due to the number of entrants we have. We have three more days of practice before the competition will begin.

The President of South Korea was here today. I almost got run down by his motorcade while heading over to lunch.