Fort Ritchie Triathlon - TriathlonOlympic

Wetsuit optional swim...so of course I opted for the suit. I always reap the benefits from a suit so it was no-brainer for me. I ended up with one of my better swims to date. It's hard to judge the actual results compared to others because most people didn't wear them. So not comparing the actual results, the most important thing was I felt great. The stroke felt fine which is good considering I haven't trained very well in the pool this past month or so.

Each turn buoy I opened up the top of my suit to get in some water to cool my body down from the warm water and it made a huge difference. About 200M into the swim after rounding the first buoy we hit a bunch of growth that was in the lake and it was a nuisance to swim in. Lasted for about 100M or so and then went away.

The actual time of 23:31 includes a run from the end of the first loop onto the grass and onto the pier and jumping back in. It also includes a run from the water to the transition area. So I was probably sub-23 minutes of in-water time.

Nothing really.

Even with a wetsuit I was still one of the faster transition splits. Had to put the race number on for the bike, so that added a few seconds too.

Nothing.

Leaving the Fort was a nice uphill to get the legs firing. Then it rolled for a bit before hitting a screaming downhill. Back to rolling for a bit before hitting the same hill coming back. All uphill for most of the last 5 miles.

Bike felt Ok. Since I led out of the water in my wave I was out in front for about 7 miles until I got a nice pat on the back from J. I stayed with him for about a few miles and then once the hill came my time started slipping back a bit. The last hill was tough. A looooong, gradual climb back to the Fort. Had to keep positive mental thoughts knowing I had a 10K to run!



Get stronger on the bike...period! Weights, hill training, and whatever else it takes to compete on the bike. I hate seeing bike splits after each race knowing that is where I lose most of my time.

In and out fairly quick. I put socks on so that added a few seconds.

Nothing.

Negative split which was nice. Felt Ok the first loop, but didn't find my rhythm until the 2nd loop. I was getting faster and more confident. At mile marker 5 I pushed a really strong pace to the finish and felt good at the end. Was hoping for a better run, but I'll take it.

Just keep working on my run form and technique, especially going uphill.

Enjoyed time with family, friends, and fellow triathletes.


Bike strength on the hills.


Including the 10 males in the Elite/Open division, I would have finished 11th out of a total of 123 males. Not too bad! I'd do this race again next year if my schedule permits. Always like to compare year after year to assess my improvements!