Well, I have been benched for the season. At least I am going out on top after my victory at the Boulder Beer Mile, which despite popular belief, is not responsible for my poor health….at least I dont think so…

So, for the time being, I have returned to my true calling in life- asking cool people silly questions. Today’s victim was Mark Van Akkeren aka Marky V. Marky is a rookie pro in Boulder, Colorado. He is the fastest swimming man in the sport, having recently led Matt Reed and Simon Lessing out of the water at Boulder Peak. In 2007 he was the top swimmer in Kona, and continued to lead the age group race through the bike. Currently, Mark is gearing up for next weekend’s Ironman Canada. I feel a special closeness to Mark since I once lived in Nebraska, and he once spent, like, 10 minutes there.

LT:  Have you ever run over a prairie dog while riding your bike?

MV: Not yet ;)  They’re cute aaaand annoying, squeak squeak squeak

LT:  If you could repaint the bottom of the pool with something other than a black line, what would it be?

MV: Hmmmm a coral reef in 3D?  And then wear 3D goggles!  It would be just like Kona and all those laps would just quickly pass by. 

LT: How much would someone have to pay you to race in a speedo?

MV: Probably nothing… but a speedo doesn’t have much billboard space.  ;)

LT:  What is your best dance move?

MV: Staying in my seat!!! 

LT: When was the last time you went skinny dipping?

MV: 2006

LT: Are you related in any way to Chuckie V?

MV: Veylupek ≠ Van Akkeren… but we both like hiking!

LT:  Have you ever worn tinted goggles any where because you didnt have sunglasses?

MV: At summer swim meets growing up if I didn’t have my glasses I’d loosen up the straps and just wear the metallics.  :)