Albuquerque triathletes converge in Tucson, Ariz., for training, camaraderie and warm weather

To get a jump on the New Mexico triathlon season, a trip to Tucson in February may be in order.

“The Tucson Winter Camp is for triathletes at all levels. The camp is designed to meet the timing of the southwest triathlon scene; it’s the perfect build up,” according to Jaime Dispenza, a certified USA Triathlon director and cycling coach.

Dispenza says that the four-day camp focuses on running, cycling and swimming skills, and will include discussion of a training plan that is specially tailored to coincide with the kick-off of New Mexico’s triathlon season.

The venue, The Lodge at Ventana Canyon, is tucked away at the base of the Catalina Mountains, Dispenza says.

The camp also has training in Sabino Canyon, which is a favorite of Tucson locals.

“It’s gorgeous. It helps you relax … (you can) go over last season and reflect (on) thoughts about the new season,” he says.

Triathlete Lauren Thompson, 26, who set a course record to win the women’s 2012 Elephant Man Triathlon at Elephant Butte Reservoir, says the clinic marks the beginning of her triathlon season.

“In New Mexico the triathlon season starts around April and May. You’ll want to start (training) a couple of months before the actual season, but it’s just so cold here. So, to get a good kickoff I go to the camp,” she says.

Matt Gonzales, 25, who also has multiple wins under his belt, including both the 2011 and 2012 Open Water Triathlon Series, says that in New Mexico it’s hard to train on his bike with the rush of a constant chill in his face.

“The weather in Tucson is so nice,” Gonzales says. “Here, it’s hard knowing that it’s 35 degrees outside and when you get on your bike it feels like the temperature is going to drop 10 degrees.”

While the triathlon scene offers races of many types, Gonzales says that an organized winter training camp gets him prepared for the endurance races in which he participates.

“The camp can really help anyone with anything from a 5K run to an Ironman (triathlon). Jaime works with anybody looking to be healthy. I couldn’t do a 70.3-mile endurance event – a half of an Ironman distance – without attending this winter camp to get some help from Jaime. It really ramps up training for the rest of the season,” Gonzales says.

Thompson says that while she likes to take racing seriously, she enjoys the camaraderie that can often be lost while training alone.

“Training on your own is fine, but it can get boring. At the camp, everyone is so funny. It’s just a great getaway,” she says.

Gonzales adds that with his past experience at the camp, he’s been able to meet year-long training partners.

“I’ve gotten to know a lot of people I can train with and that keeps me motivated,” Gonzales says.

The price of the camp includes lodging and two catered meals, Dispenza says. He adds that each room is a full apartment with a kitchen so that each athlete can meet their special dietary requirements. The camp also showcases several seasoned coaches, a yoga instructor and a massage therapist.