WOW! You haven't seen us in your inbox in a long time, and boy have we missed you! But just because you haven't heard from us, doesn't mean we haven't been thinking of you. As a matter of fact, we've been working hard to bring you some fun events, new products and store improvements. We'll try to fill you in on some of it right here in this Chain Links Newsletter.

Also in this edition, see what it takes to be a star; find out about a free new triathlon service; and learn how to keep your cool from pro-triathletes, Jamie Cleveland and Andrea Fisher.

Have you ever wondered what it's like to work behind the scenes at a triathlon? Maybe you wonder what it takes to create a World Class tri. If you want to be a star in the eyes of fellow tri enthusiasts, then sign up to volunteer today! You'll help put a smile on hundreds of faces!

Volunteer at the Skeese Greets Tri...
Volunteer at The Austin Tri...

From the producers of The Rookie Tri and Jack's Generic Tri come two new, super fun tri's for your enjoyment.

The first is the Skeese Greets Women's Tri scheduled for this Sunday, Aug. 26th at the TX Ski Ranch. Then on Labor Day, Mon. Sept. 3rd, comes The Austin Tri in Downtown Austin!

Both events are filling up quickly, but there is still space available. Hurry though, The Austin Tri has only 200 more available spots.

If you haven't already tried it, then you've got to check out this cool new service called The Race Time. We don't sell it in the store; in fact, it's completely free for you to use.

Here's what it is: The Race Time is a cutting edge website designed so you never have to be out of the loop. Choose your events and categories, then enter your device. You are now tuned in to the latest information, promotions, and happenings in the Tri community.

Event messaging is being employed by the the Texas Tri Series, Double X Tri Series, Austin Triathletes' Dilloman, and other events across central Texas.

As a special incentive, the next 20 people to sign up for messaging for the Skeese Greets Tri or The Austin Tri will receive a free gift courtesy of Jack & Adam's. Other special promotions are in the works, so don't miss out!

Dealing with Heat
Texas Summers are hot, brutal and long. Training for those July-September races can be a real challenge. In order to maximize your training in this tough environment, follow these simple guidelines.

1. Do not train in the hottest part of the day
Heading out for an important and intense workout in the middle of the afternoon is not just silly, it is dangerous because it exposes you to dehydration and heat illness.

2. Drink plenty of fluid
Dehydration is the single most common heat related issue for endurance athletes. A small decrease in your body's hydration level can result in a huge drop in performance.

3. Monitor your salt loss and salt intake
Sodium, and to a lesser extent, potassium and magnesium are essential electrolytes depleted during exercise in hot environments.

4. Wear sunscreen
At the risk of sounding like someone's parent, sunscreen should be worn at all times while working out outdoors.

5. Wear light colored clothing that is breathable
Light colored technical fabrics will actually help reduce the temperature of your skin.

6. Sunglasses are a must
When you squint against glare or direct sunlight, your entire upper body tenses up. In order to avoid that, invest in a decent pair of sunglasses that provide complete UV broad spectrum protection.

With a little thought and planning, anyone can take the bite out of the Texas summers. Training shouldn't be about suffering through or simply enduring sessions. Take a little time to establish an environment that supports success and enables you to enjoy your training year round.

For more information about this article, please feel free to Email Jamie Cleveland at Texas Iron.