Chicago Triathlon - Olympic Distance - TriathlonOlympic

Last year i was kicked hard in the face the first 20 yards so I hung back and gave myself room to maneuver. Lots of people seemed to be struggling and going to the rope.

Got into a great stroke after the turn.

Lots of chop, also swam into plastic bag that caused somewhat of a shock to me.

I would go out stronger from the beginning.

Out of Water at 35 Mins, need to get to T1 quicker.

Stepped on something right out of swim exit. HUGE bruise underneath left foot. It didn't hamper me during the race except for 1/3 mile run to transition.

Wet suit stuck a bit again getting off - need to practice that some more.


I did some running without socks in training and going to try that for next season.

Also going to get bike shoes with clipless pedals.

WINDY - going north was tough, though made up for it on the turn. Need to be VERY careful with potholes.

First race with Tri bike!!

Still trying to get my race MPH right, not pushing hard enough throughout bike segment - holding back for run.

Change out shirt & put race belt on. Put on sun tan lotion.

Did some quick stretching to ward off leg cramping that has bothered me since Achilles injury.

Have some more Sport Beans from Jelly Belly. Great for a grab into the run. Easy to eat and run with.

I felt pretty good, left foot slightly sore from swim exit.

Started out slowly to get legs stretched out. Had nice slow pacing going. about 1:00/mile per minute slower than normal for a 10k for me but didn't want to push it with the Achilles.

Only time I stopped running was to walk drinking at the aid stations when I also did quick rubdown of my calf & Achilles tendon.

Don't hurt my Achilles! :)

Happy with the run all in all - need to get a running cap; baseball cap is too hot.

Stretching immediately after run.
Walk and very light jog over to swim check and then walk over to Transition.


1. Needed better sleep - was up early on Saturday and then slept very badly Saturday night.
2. Achilles injury (did I mention that? :) )
3. Need to know how hard I can push bike; need to get more swimming in.


I LOVE racing downtown Chicago - so beautiful. It really makes you appreciate the city.

Fun Fun Fun - it is already on my calendar for 2010!!!

The City of Chicago needs to get their act together if they think they can hold the Olympics - Lake Shore Drive is brutal, there was one pothole in the middle of the left lane going southbound that could have hurt many.