HOWLAND Kattouf pushes himself to top

The optometrist has found success in the duathlon.
HOWLAND -- Rick Kattouf, a 31-year-old optometrist, is one of the top athletes in the United States.
He is ranked fifth in the nation in the duathlon, which consists of two runs with a cycling portion in between.
Kattouf has earned several titles this year: duathlon long course national champion, sprint distance regional champion and Olympic distance regional champion. On Aug. 11th, Kattouf set the course record in Sylvania, Ohio, covering the 2.3-mile run, 25-mile bike and 6.2-mile run in a time of 1 hour, 49 minutes. His margin of victory was over 11 1/2 minutes.
Recognition
Kattouf has earned All-American honors by USA Triathlon and Inside Triathlon Magazine as well as All-Regional by Mideast Multisport news.
He's given a lot of credit to his coach, Mike Niederpreum, a Carmichael Training System coach who's also worked with Tour de France champion Lance Armstrong.
"Mike and I work well together," said Kattouf. "He knows how to push me to my limits and also when to rest me for the big races. I am fortunate to have someone so knowledgeable in my corner."
Kattouf has also gained the attention of sponsors, such as Baker's Breakfast Cookies, GU, Champion Nutrition, HeadBlade, MaxiVision, Colorado Altitude Training, Rudy Project, Penta Water and Tri-Tech Multisport.
Preparing his body
Aside from training 15-to-20 hours per week, Kattouf also makes use of modern technology to enhance performance. He sleeps in a specially constructed room that simulates 10,000 feet above sea level.
"The science is live high [at altitude], train low [at sea level]," he said.
At 10,000 feet the oxygen content is 14.5 percent compared to 20.9 percent at sea level.
"This reduced oxygen atmosphere increases red blood cell production and hematocrit, thereby making my aerobic system that much more efficient," said Kattouf.
Kattouf is able to manage a professional career and continue to train and race at a world class level by being in practice with his father.
"He and I have a great relationship," said Kattouf. "He is one of the very few people who truly understands my commitment to my sport. We simply coordinate our schedules and have the office covered at all times."
International competition
On Oct. 19, Kattouf will compete with Team USA at the Duathlon World Championships in Alpharetta, Ga., (910 km run-40 km bike-5 km run). He will also serve as the team optometrist. Approximately 30 countries will be represented.
Last year in Rimini, Italy, Kattouf placed 28th overall at the world championships and was the fifth-highest placing American.
XFor more information on duathlons, visit www.duathlon.com.