Ironman 70.3 Taupo - Triathlon

no one was ready for the starting hooter so all a bit behind the line, got a good start though and felt like I was up front (it was 45+ group). Not too much trafiic until we caught up with wave in front. I was neck and neck with lady in pink goggles.

get to start line promptly

The transition time includes a 400m run from the swim exit to the transition area. Kept goggles on while running so I could see better. wetsuit, hat and goggles off, glasses on and socks, shoes, helmet, gloves.

practice getting wetsuit off more quickly

First time racing with new bike. After getting going and taking a gel realised I had pressed the lap button of my watch too many times and found it was on pause. Just put watch on timer so I could eat and drink regularly (every 20 mins). Many people passed me on this leg (as usual) but most of them were guys from the later waves. Aero position was pretty good, just got a bit uncomfortable in the 65 to 80k section. Nutrition - 1 moonbar and 1.5 SIS energy bars & 2 bottles of iso.

Make sure cycle legs are more rested and get more time on new bike.

Nearly took helmet off by mistake on the way into the transition area, spectators warned me, thank goodness! Left my gloves with the transition aid station and forgot to pick them up afterwards.

Keep gloves and give them to Kelvin.

Had to stop for toilet at the first aid station. Took 2 leppins and a clif gel (too thick) with some iso and a lot of water. First half was 3 mins faster that second half. Felt good as I was passing quite a few runners. This was my PB run for a 70.3.

Take extra leppins and try and do negative split.

Pack up and a few stretches. Coffee, apple, protein nut bar, salted peanuts and almonds.


Time on the new bike and lack of tapering. This race was included as part of my ironman training program for NZ ironman in March.


Great course with lake swim, fairly flat cycle and scenic run course. Great preparation for the full ironman which is on the same course with slight modification to the cycle leg. I'll be back in March 2016.