Just two years ago USA Triathlon asked US Naval Academy grad Timothy O’Donnell to serve in the domestique role to help out first tier triathletes gain points and strategic advantage in World Cup events leading to the Beijing Olympics. But in 2009, O’Donnell took his athletic fate into his own hands and found his greatness at the Ironman 70.3 distance, taking wins at St. Croix, Calgary, and Boulder 5430 long course. At the end of the year, he won the ITU long course World Championship in Perth and took his place with the elite of his sport. Recently, O’Donnell decided to make Boulder his permanent home and was in the process of closing on a home while ramping up his training for the 2010 season.

All photographs © Timothy Carlson

O’Donnell arrives at the Flatirons pool for a Jane Scott workout on a brisk day in his Navy warm-up coat.

Talking to an age grouper before hitting the water.

A quick pose in the cold morning sun before hitting the warmth of the pool.

Fast lane swimmers try to stay warm before a set.

Annapolis grad O’Donnell churns through a Victory at Sea moment at Flatirons swim workout.

O’Donnell says his backstroke form is not pristine.

Pause after a demanding set.

Two full-time Boulder resident world champions – Tim O’Donnell and Julie Dibens – join their fast lane compatriots in the hot tub after Flatirons swim workout.

James Hadley samples Tim O’Donnell’s iPod selections.

Running the Colorado University cross country loop.

O’Donnell has developed an efficient stride that has led to fast splits.

O’Donnell follows Boulder realtor to the tri stars Wes Hobson on a tour of three-story condo.

O’Donnell and his realtor outside the home he hopes to buy.

O’Donnell relaxes at his apartment near Amante in North Boulder, sipping on a first-rate home brewed latte.

Not enough time for a nap, but just enough to catch up on his reading beneath a poster from St. Croix 70.3.

A crucial session with master massage therapist Josh Schadle starts with a simple stretch.

Later, Schadle works hard on O'Donnell's hamstring.

Warming up for a 90-minute CompuTrainer session on his new Argon 18 bike, O’Donnell plays to the Beatles Paperback Writer in Guitar Hero.

Getting down to business, O’Donnell revels in the effort.

Finishing up the week at Julie and Michael Dibens’ Super Bowl party with Michael and Julie, Greg Remaly, Joanna Zeiger, Andrew Yoder, James Hadley, and Mark Schenk.