It was 2 " out and backs " which gave spectators a chance to see the runners 4 times . That 's Heather Fuhr on the left and Paula Newby - Fraser handing out water at the turnaround . I was a bit shocked to see a number of Ironman competitors in the race and running hard ( I could see their registration wristbands . ) I was more shocked to see a guy running in corduroy shorts in fourth place trying to chase down the leaders .

Question: What is the reason I would be shocked to see someone running in Corduroy shorts gaining in 4th place ?
Answer: The shorts are expensiveIt is unsightlycorduroy is a thick and hot material .The style is unflattering .