Race Preview: Rev3 Maine

The NECTC heads to the North Atlantic this weekend for the re-branded Rev3 Maine Olympic Triathlon. The race offers up 150 total points and is sure to shake up the overall standings so far this year in our highest valued race yet.

The race course begins with a swim that is hard to plan for. Last year the water temperature was well over 70 degrees, but in the past we have experienced sub 60 degree temperatures. Some years there are no waves in sight, or like last year they play an vital role in the results.

Female Individual Favorites:

Drexel joins the fold in their first race of the season with last year's standout Meg Smith. Smith finished 3rd overall in the season standings last year and with a win could take over sole possession of first place in the conference. BU stars Ellen Witkowski and Stephanie Lie return for the second year in a row. Witkowski and Lie finished 1st and 2nd overall in the conference respectively last year. However, Smith (Drexel) was able to best both Witkowski and Lie in their two head to head matchups last year at Lake George and Westchester. Looks for this to be a close 3 way race with the edge going to Smith.

Male Individual Favorites:

Spencer Ralston (Saint Michael's) and Andrew Keenan (Drexel) finished second and third in the conference standings last year and are strong favorites this weekend. Ralston bested Keenan in all three head to head matchups last season, but by narrow margins each time. Look for this race to come down to the run leg.

Team Favorites:

The BU ladies should have 2 of the top 3 females and their depth should solidify the top of the podium. The male race is between UConn and Northeastern who both have the largest teams competing this weekend. The UConn men finished 2nd overall in the season standings last year so they would have to be the favorites. With that said, the fight for the overall team victory looks like it could be a tighter battle, with Northeastern having a chance to knock off the Huskies.