I don’t know how many of you have met Melanie McQuaid, but if you haven’t yet you should certainly try to do so. She’s articulate, intelligent and charismatic. She’s also a true champion, one who can push the bounds of the possible by blazing her way to three World Champion victories and who can also graciously accept defeat when the day is not hers to seize. She understands her rare talent, but she also knows her human capacity for learning and imperfection. Mel admittedly had a rough day on Sunday, turning in a solid swim but lacking the requisite legs on the bike and struggling throughout the run. Despite an off day, she still managed to push herself to limits most of us will never experience, much less embrace, and held off a hard-charging women’s field to finish an impressive second. Mel, you may have another year to go until you grab that elusive 4th title, but to all of us watching on Sunday, you rocked it!
I also had the pleasure of sitting down to breakfast with Melanie and her husband Ross the morning after XTERRA for a less-than-serious post race interview. I have a few fun questions I like to ask each of our pros, which are posted below. But aside from the Q&A, it was great to have a view into a relaxed slice of life from the Mel & Ross show. They’re just a wonderful couple of people who enjoy good times, quality food & wine, surfing, travel, and dinner parties with their non-triathlete friends. Mel is even an admitted Martha Stewart wannabe, which is surprising when you consider how hard she kicks ass on the race course.
Be sure to check out Melanie’s website, www.racergirl.com for her own race report. Aside from her personal blog and photos, there’s still time to enter an interactive contest where you can win loads of GU product. The contest ends on November 2nd, so hurry up and play!
If you were a flavor of GU, what would you be?
Chocolate Salt & Pepper…because I’m always sweet with an edge.
Aside from performance sports nutrition, what unique uses can you think of for GU?
An adhesive. (Or, per Ross’ suggestion, the money shot in a porn flick.)
Did you ever forget your GU and completely bomb your workout or race?
Yes, in Tahoe, because of the cold I didn’t pay attention to needing to eat, and I suffered!
What sports nutrition product would you like to see GU produce next?
GU-sicles…please!
How many gels and what flavors did you use on course at XTERRA Maui?
4 Vanilla Bean.
If we were to make a flavor honoring your favorite adult beverage, what would it be called?
Kahlua & Chocolate.
Have you ever been involved in a girl fight over a packet of Chocolate Outrage, and if so, who won?
No, but I did challenge Sam McGlone to a Chocolate GU mud wrestling match…and I kicked her butt!
If you were a contestant on Survivor, what flavor 24-pack of GU would be your one comfort item from home, and would you share it with your fellow castaways?
I’d take an assortment pack…and I’d consider bartering for cookies.
If you were going to dye your hair, what color would it be?
Platinum blonde…a la Gwen Stefani and Brigitte Bardot.
How many mgs of Love are contained in one packet of Espresso Love?
The perfect amount.