Long Beach Triathlon - TriathlonSprint

Pretty simple along the beach swim. You swim out to the first buoy then turn right and follow the beach past the next buoys to the breakwater then turn right again and swim in.

I started outside and to the back in an attempt to not get too crowded and pummeled (I still laugh about that cliff bar youtube swim start training video). I fiddled with my goggles at the last minute and loosened them sufficiently that I had to take them off and tighten them up again as I was running into the water. Of course, that was enough distraction to make me forget to start my watch so I just decided to go off of clock time.

Out to the first buoy was good enough. I started passing a few people breast stroking and I kept trying to stay to the outside so I didn't have to navigate too closely. I have a strong pull to the right so I guess I'll be working on that in the pool. Eventually I got straightened out enough to be sure I wasn't going in circles. Then I calmed down and just tried to go smooth and catch my breath. I did much better than I originally feared.

As other race reports mentioned, there is a decent run through sand back up to the transition area but I was prepared for it mentally.

I watched another youtube transition video that recommended leaving your cap and goggles in the sleeve of your wetsuit assuring that they would stay there. I tried this and they were gone by the time I got back up to the transition area. Easier just to carry them methinks.

The bridge gets a little wearing...by the 4th time I crossed it I was ready to be done with it. I almost crashed myself getting my tire stuck in a road seam along the second lap but I was able to recover so that was scary. I took a little Gatorade here and there and dropped my clif blocks (whattanewb).

I would probably push the pace a bit harder next time.

No timing on this but basically it was just park the bike and go since I don't change shoes. It was probably quick.

There was a fair number of people already on the run but I felt pretty good (bricks must've helped) so I was able to make up some of my lost ranks. I was inspired by the number of people with numbers higher than mine on the backs of their legs. I hope I'm still doing this when I'm 68. I was also inspired by the youngsters (unfortunately most of them were coming at me the other way).

I would go out a little harder, I had a fair amount left at the end.

oranges and water...not much of a warm down


I would like to swim and bike (and run but not as much) faster. Skill improvements needed in swimming and biking, run just needs continued conditioning.


Overall a very fun event and great for a first timer. I would definitely recommend it.