Ironman 70.3 Florida - Triathlon1/2 Ironman

Glad we were able to do the swim...I didn't want my first HIM to be partial...it wouldn't have felt right. Took off and was first one to the first buoy which I like to be in any race...avoids swimming around anyone and keeps me free from any potential nonsense. My overall performance was slower than what I could typically do as I should have probabaly averaged 1:30 per 100. Again, it was my first HIM, and I felt 100% fresh exiting the water with no tired arms or breathing.

Next time, swim faster. Was difficult to also take on the many waves of swimmers ahead of me, whom I started catching up to by the 2nd buoy. My better swims are those when the faster age group gets to start earlier.

Took a good 1/4 mile or so to get going on the bike as the route started with many turns on the wet pavement. Had to run with shoes for this race due to the transition area, and I almost left T1 without them on.

Remember the shoes.

Cycling is my weakest of the three disciplines but my training and preparation paid off as I had several good weeks of good rides coming into this weekend. Was extremely nervous about getting a flat with my tubies, which didn't happen (THANK GOD). Wattage went above what was advised but I felt fresh the whole ride, so I maintained what felt comfortable. Time went by quickly and happy to come in sub-2:48, yet alone sub-2:45. A 2:30 would put me in a sub-5:00 race next time.

Nutrition/hydration went well. Glad I took the extra :30 to put on the arm sleeves. Grabbed water from aid station 1 and 2, leaving me with more than enough to finish up. Propetuum, HEED, cliff shots, and 2 hammer gels sufficed the entire ride (along with 2 bottles of water from aid).

Became quite annoyed with a few female racers who thought it was okay to draft and block for a good 15 miles of my ride. Calling out a few of their numbers: 1703 and 1505. There were a few others in their pack and I can only say that their time will come.

More time in the saddle to get sub-2:30. All things considered, I couldn't be happier when a plan is executed well.

Transition time not recorded (included with bike split), though was able to actually calculate myself. Took a health break en route to the run exit and away I went to ripping out a half-marathon.

Well-prepared mentally for this run. Was warned it would be tough. It was but fortunately there was more shaded running than originally planned for (not a bad thing!). First mile averaged 7:00 pace, then hit the grass and immediately slowed down as legs started (already) to feel not so much heavy, but shin splints which were gone by mile 2. I wasn't able to negative split this run but I was able to pick up the pace the last mile or so and drive home the last 1/2 mile with every last bit of energy I had. Very pleased.

Never accept that Ironman Perform crap. It gave me a stomach cramp during lap 3. Lesson learned...I thought it was Powerade. Never try new things on race day! Some trail running, beach running was good to put into the plan. This helped.

Had a little trouble breathing when I finished. Took 2 waters and almost jumped into the ice pool but they wouldn't let me. Line for the massage wasn't long at all so that helped though my left IT band still an issue.


I can't say...it was my first HIM. Though I am looking to sub-5:00 at my next HIM!


I wish the race was going to continue so its a bummer it was the last year here. I enjoyed the race, the challenge, and being a part of it. My realistic goal was sub-5:15 with potential sub-5:10, so how can I be anything less than excited beyone belief to finish my first HIM in 5:08? So I didn't qualify for Vegas in my first HIM, I kicked ass anyway.

A quick shout of gratitude to my wife for her support and patience, my coach for a great training plan and guidance that helped me exceed my expectations, and my friends and family who have supported me with their thoughts and encouragement!