Mike Duchek completed his first half marathon in 2011, progressed to full marathons and started looking for more. After reading a local newspaper article about JP Palmer, he remembered mention of the St. Louis Triathlon Club in that article. Mike joined the club in very early 2014, completing his first Sprint Triathlon later that same year. Now the inspiration and camaraderie of his fellow members has helped encourage him to complete numerous multi-sport events and bring his wife (Jennifer) and kids (Adam & Devin) into the multi-sport arena as participants and volunteers. Jennifer prefers running 5Ks with the family – Adam (age 16) has completed two half marathons, several Sprint Triathlons and will complete his first Oly in 2021 – Devin (age 15) has graduated from kids Triathlons to complete Sprint Triathlons in the past few years and will continue to get faster.
When/Where was your first triathlon?
Ballwin Tri – 2014 – Finished AG 3rd
What is your favorite and least favorite gel flavor?
Chocolate Outrage rocks! Can’t stand peanut butter gels (or anything peanut butter)
What is your favorite race?
It was Wood River, but after 30-some-odd years of small town Triathlon, the aquatic center was demolished. Since my whole family has been to the race venue each of the last 4 years, Ironman 70.3 Ohio has become a favorite. I completed the 70.3 in 2017 & 2018, completed the run leg of a relay in 2019 and just visited in 2020 since we already had hotel reservations during the cancelled race. Of course, proximity to the world’s greatest thrill rides at Cedar Point might be another reason we look forward to this race every year.
What is your favorite place in or around St. Louis to train?
I love to swim in Alpine Lake (Innsbrook), bike around Creve Coeur Park and run around Forest Park.
What is the one piece of tri-geek gear you can’t live without?
A hat
