D3 caught up with Richard Peck, our Athlete of the Month for January 2012.

D3: Can you tell us a little bit about your sports background? Which sports did you do as a kid and as you got older?

RP: Typical played basketball in high school and college.

D3: What was your motivation to get started in triathlon?

RP:: Trying to fend off father time I started triathlon training after several years of running marathons. Loved the introduction of the swim and bike in addition to the run. I feel more balanced. Motivation was to maintain a healthy and active lifestyle.

D3: When and where was your first race?

RP: My first race was the Escape from Alcatraz in 2006. What a great introduction! Interesting story after hearing all the stories of swimming from Alcatraz (the shark folklore) my wife took me on a tour the San Francisco aquarium the day before with their exhibit of the marine life of the San Francisco bay. Really wasn't interested in seeing all of the marine life that I would be swimming with in my first triathlon the following day kind of intimidating. Certainly not a recommended experience to calm pre-race nerves! A great race nonetheless!

D3: You just started a new business what is it?

RP: We just started a mobile bicycle mechanic support and service business The Bike Rover (www.thebikerover.com). Aside from the amount of work associated with opening your own business it has been very exciting and rewarding. We are in the business of selling enjoyment. We are specializing in mechanic support as well as Support and Gear (SAG) services designed to enhance the safety, convenience and enjoyment of your passion for cycling. Our goal and philosophy is summarized in our slogan Don't Worry Bike Happy

D3: What did you do before this new business venture?

RP: After serving in the United States Navy, I have been working in the defense contracting business for over 20 years.

D3: What services have you used at D3 to help you with reaching your goals?

RP: I first started with D3 by purchasing off the shelf training plans for triathlons of various distances. Last year I made the decision to work with a coach in a more interactive way it really paid off and I believe that I progressed more rapidly toward my goals (thanks Coach Ivy!).

D3: Have you done any races that you'd traveled for?

RP: My wife and I have been fortunate to travel to races in many locations throughout the years. This is what excites me about triathlon it provides a unique perspective to see a new location. In my opinion there is no better way to take in a new place than to swim, bike and run throughout the location. For example, when I raced the Escape from Alcatraz, I took the opportunity to pause midway through the swim and look at the skyline of San Francisco and the Golden Gate Bridge while swimming in the waters of San Francisco Bay it isn't every day you get that opportunity!

D3: Best Triathlon moment?

RP: Reaching the goals we set. For example, winning my age group at the Skipjack triathlon in Cambridge, MD last year.

D3: What is your favorite race and why?

RP: They are all great however, Ironman Lake Placid has to be my favorite. Not only was it my first Ironman distance triathlon with incredible challenge and scenery but it holds a special place for me. My father worked the 1982 winter olympics as a New York State Policeman. He was stationed at the intersection of River Road and Route 86. I always think of him at those intersections on the bike and on the run course great comfort and motivation.

D3: What are your long term goals in triathlon?

RP: To continue to stay happy and healthy and to chase the Kona qualifying standard!

D3: If you could spend one day training with anyone, who would it be?

RP: Coach Mike of course!

D3: What's in your race future?

RP: Solid races for this year include Ironman 70.3 in San Juan in March, Ironman Lake Placid and Ironman Florida. I am deciding on races in May and September this year any recommendations?

D3: What's your favorite workout?

RP: All of them!!! Is that the right answer?! But really that first outdoor really long ride in the spring.

D3: What your least favorite workout?

RP:: Indoor treadmill workouts in the winter. They are excruciating.

D3: Tell us something interesting about you!

RP: I will once again be racing to raise awareness and funds to support the mission of the National Down Syndrome Society to craft a world where all people with Down syndrome have the opportunity to enhance our quality of life by realizing their life aspirations by becoming valued members of welcoming communities. This will be the third year that we have partnered to support the Down syndrome community and to celebrate the achievements of those 400,000+ individuals living with Down Syndrome. I am so happy that they have included me in their efforts!

Congratulations to Richard on a great 2011 season! We wish you great training and racing in 2012!