I had estimated my swim time at 9 minutes, so I was disappointed in my time. But, I forgot to allow for the part where we had to get out of the pool after 200 meters of serpentine, run 50 meters to the other end and then jump back in for the last 200 meters. I should have allowed perhaps 30 seconds for that. Also, I was held up three times when I needed to pass. It seemed like a lot of swimmers were doing the breast-stroke and even though the lanes were nice and wide, it was harder to pass them.

Try to calm down.

I lost some time trying to pull on my long-sleeve jersey over my wet skin and tri-top. I had pinned my race number to the jersey, so I was committed to getting it on. The last race I did, I had used a different long-sleeve top which was easier to pull on. I think I will go ahead and get a race belt for the next event. Then, of course, putting on socks, shoes, helmet, and gloves ate up more time. I had decided to wear gloves because I like to have something to rub my nose since I usually start sniveling on the bike. (Last race I went without gloves and I didn’t like it.) Ironically, my nose stayed dry this time, so I could have gone without the gloves!

I had targeted 40 minutes for the bike leg. The course included some loops inside a parking lot and that dropped my average. But I think slowing down in the parking lot may have actually helped me rest abit for the rest of the course. I did worry that I was pushing too hard on the bike and that I would have problems during the run.

This was okay. I took a few extra seconds for a drink and I walked instead of jogging through the transition area.

I felt pretty tired starting the run, but was okay after about 8 minutes. This was actually a decent pace for me. On a good day, I can get below a 10-minute mile.

A good event. I like the friendly atmosphere of the organizers, volunteers, competitors and spectators.

A special thanks to my wonderful husband who came with me, took pictures, and even jogged the last 20 yards with me (even though he has a blown-out knee!)