Showdown at Sundown - Triathlon

Swim was cancelled due to water temps

Without a swim, we lined up by number and took off at 5 second intervals. The course was uphill from the moment we left the water's edge and the wind was incredible. i was happy I had ridden the course before so mentally I could stay strong. I definately did not drink enough water on the ride.

Drink more water

Transition was okay. I have practiced pulling the velcro out of the loops of my shoes so I can pull my foot out of the shoe at dismount. I was pleased with the way that worked. My transition area was at the far end of the bike racks and I walked as opposed to ran just to get my bearings and try to remain calm. When I got to my area there was no room to rack my bike and had to move bikes to make room. Took my time getting into my shoes, swigged the last of my carb drink and drank some extra water.

If I hydrate better on the bike I will save time here

I had a little trouble at the start of the run with my calves cramping, but manged to run thru it. My goal was not to walk, but as time went on I could feel I had a good pace going,so i did walk a couple time just to get my breath back, most importantly right before the last quarter mile to the finish, which was a steep uphill. I wanted to finish running strong:)
Even after going all out on a difficult bike course I still had enough legs to run a time only about 1 minutes slower than my best "non-flat" 5k.

My MInd??


My plan was to do the whole race easy and controlled just to get a grasp of a triathlon vs a road or bike race. With the absence of a swim, I decided to go hard and lay it all out there. I was glad I did.