Kids & Family

Encino's Daniel Belson to Participate in His 13th L.A. Triathlon Sunday

The local triathlete, who has taken part in every L.A. Triathlon since the event started in 2000, keeps fit by swimming at the Van Nuys Sherman Oaks pool.

Encino resident Daniel Belson is one of 2,500 triathletes participating in the swim leg of the thirtheenth annual Herbalife Triathlon Los Angeles this Sunday. He's also one of just 13 triatheles who have completed every L.A. triathlon since 2000, making him one of the "13 for 13" in L.A. Belson was on Venice Beach on September 10, 2000 for the first triathlon, and has been going back ever since. Patch caught up with Belson to ask him about his triathlon experiences.

You've completed every LA Triathlon since 2000 and are 13 for 13! And you're one of just 14 triatheles to do so. How do you feel about that accomplishment?

Yes i've done all of them. I played on sports teams my whole life, from grade school through collegiate ahtletics. Triathlons seemed like a fun idea [ever since] I saw that first ad in Competitor magazine. And after my first event i was hooked. I'm not big on competing for a time but I love the training, race day, and of course the feeling of acccomplishment for completing a race. I've gotten my wife involved in them, she competed in a couple LA triathlons and several half iron mans as well. Being 41, I'm good for another 20 or 30 at least, and I plan to be the last one standing. I have three kids who hopefully will be joining me on the course in the future to keep me motivated.

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How did you prepare for this year's triathlon?
Not very well. I think I'm taking this one too casually. I've been mostly playing basketball on the weekend and riding my bike to work on Fridays. I still swim once a week at the Van Nuys Sherman Oaks pool.

Is there a part of the triathlon that you enjoy more or are stronger in?
I grew up body surfing in Playa del Rey so I'm very comfortable in the water. I plan on catching some waves this weekend, I hear the surf is going to be huge.

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Does one triathlon in particular stand out for you? Why?
One year I had back pains so I limped in to the water, wobbled on the bike, and walked the run. I finished though.

How long have you lived in Encino?
I've been in Encino for 5 years. We moved here from Mar Vista on the westside because my commute was terrible. I work at Warner Bros.

Does Carmageddon present any particular challenges to you this year? Will you have to get from Encino on the day, or are you staying in Venice?

It does, going to be a nightmare to get there and back. I'm thinking of sleeping in Venice the night before and maybe even biking home.

Anything else our readers should know about your triathlon adventures?

I've done several triathlons, one full Ironman and a couple halfs. I also have done some random adventure races and plan on doing a 100 kilometer Ultra in Nepal this coming November.


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