New Jersey State Triathlon - Sprint Distance - TriathlonSprint

I was extremely nervous before starting this. I have been doing some pool swimming in addition to my cycling training due to an injury but have not done any training for an open water swim. Hung in the back to avoid being in the way. Started freestyle and only switched to breast stroke when I wanted to see where I was. I realized very quickly I was swimming to the right so tried to adjust. The panic I anticipated never really came. Slow and steady worked for me. The wave behind caught up but I didn't get tangled up at all. I considered this a success just finishing without having a panic attack. My time is an estimate since for some reason our team isn't listed on the results website. My brother clocked me.

I was so happy coming out of the water I didn't even notice or care about the distance or sharp rocks. We were in the second rack so the run wasn't as far as many others. This meant running further with the bike but for me it didn't really matter. I wasn't too concerned with time. I sprayed some water on my feet and put my biking shoes on. I hadn't trained without socks but decided to not take the time to put them on. I threw some suntan lotion on my face; a shirt and shorts over my suit and took off.

I had no idea what to expect. It was fine and I learned a lot for next time.

Not sure of the time since our results aren't listed. Time is based on my bike computer. This is the part I had been training for. My expectations were pretty low since I have just started to get back into shape since a nagging snow boarding injury from January. I was just enjoying myself. I passed a few people and was passed by at least 6. I felt good the whole time. Pushed myself some but looking back I should have pushed more. It was so hot! My goal was 50 minutes and I beat that so I was happy. The course was well marked and pretty flat. I always swing left when I try to put my water bottle back so I was nervous about taking a drink. I did when no one was around me. I'll need to work on that.

Learn how to take a drink without swerving.

Dismounted and jogged/walked my bike back to our rack where my brother was waiting. With so many people around and encouraging us I was so energized. It wasn't until after I gave him the chip and racked the bike that I realized how hot and tired I was. He took off and I poured water over my head and walked around a bit. Headed over to the finish area

Push harder. I had trained pretty hard. Not sure why I didn't leave everything out on the course.

My brother did this part. I forgot to look at my watch when he started so I am unsure of his time. He normally runs 5K's in around 22 minutes. He was probably a little slower due to the heat but he looked fine across the finish.

Do it myself?

I have nothing to compare this to but I loved it! I am already training to do another triathlon myself. It was well organized and the volunteers were encouraging. I will definitely do this race next year.