Washington D.C. Triathlon - Sprint Distance - TriathlonSprint

The swim was a huge improvement over my previous races. I was still slow but at least I was able to breathe normally. Water temp was highest ever and I'm sure that helped. I still got winded pretty early in the swim and had to mix it up with breast stroke. I did pretty well with the breast stroke though I did roll over onto my back and swim that way briefly.

I wasn't sure I really wanted the wetsuit but I was very glad I had it. It made a big difference and I think I would have been even slower without it. I will keep doing open water swim practices. That really helped.

I was 11/22 in my age group for T1. It was a long way from the water to the bike. I ran from the water to the bike which was the longer part of it since I was racked close to bike out. I walked about half the distance to the mounting point with my bike. I use the old style bike clips and so I ride in my running shoes. Part of the time was spent putting on socks and running shoes.

I find it difficult to worry about transitions when I'm placing so poorly in swim / bike / run. I think I'm doing okay in the transitions.

Fortunately, the rain didn't start until I was running so I didn't have to contend with wet pavement. I was disappointed in my average speed I actually thought I was going faster (I do have a speedometer on my bike).

Train harder, dammit. A new bike (someday) will help but I can go faster on the one I've got. I'm currently riding an old road bike I bought off Craig's List for $125. It's too small for me. I'm sure a new one will help.

I was 8/22 for T2 in my age group. Probably did relatively better because I didn't have to change shoes.

Arrive sooner!

My stomach was bothering me at this point and I was really worn out. I walked quite a bit.

Run more, walk less. Sigh.

Nothing special, walked around, drank water, went to the bathroom. Had a veggie burrito which was awesome.


Inability to maintain pace in the water. Slow bike. Not able to run the entire running portion. This was my third race ever and my first non-last-place finish :) I wonder what help a new/faster bike would be but there is no doubt that my biggest limiters are general fitness and technique.


This was an extremely well organized and well run event. The sheer size of it and the location made the logistics complicated. Wave start was great.