Xterra First Coast - TriathlonSprint

I sliced my foot open in the first 20 secs after the horn went off. Not sure what I stepped on but it felt like a crab - probably a shell. Despite this my time in the water - by my watch was 16min & change. A full 4 mins+ better than last race here. I did regret not getting more open water time in training. I haven't ever practiced it but had to breath on each stroke. Normally I breathe every 3rd stroke but couldn't get that rythym going.

I did panic for the first 1/4 mile before settling into a good pace and getting my breathing & heart rate calmed down.

Practice open water more. Try to not cut my foot :)

Transition was moved from the last time I raced this race another 100 yards into the lower parking lot. I think it did work out better - all shaded. Overall transition went smoothly.



A bucket or pan of water would be nice vs using a water bottle and my hand to get the sand off my feet.

The gel I had in transition did not sit well with the salt water I swallowed on the swim. I lost both the gel & salt water over some bushes about 2 miles into the ride. Afterwards I drank all my gatorade & water before finishing my first lap. Then probably had 2 cups plus at each aid station - 2 stations total - on each lap. I never did get myself feeling good after that incident and had a terrible bloated feeling for the rest of the ride.

Practice my nutrition.

I was still trying to recoup from losing my breakfast on the bike. I did not feel like even starting the run. I took a couple mins to try & walk it off then grabbed some more water & gatorade & hit the trails.

I thought I had gotten over the stomach incident and found some energy. I was roughly at my first ~mile or so before hitting the wall. I walked a bit, then ran a bit before walking again thruout the rest of the run. As I watched my time from last race come & go knowing I still had half the run to go I became discouraged and lost what little motivation I had to do my best. Beaten I sad-sacked my way to the finish line confused & dissappointed yet strangely calm & at peace. I believe I came to understand that even in a sprint, nutrition can get the best of you. Though I wasn't super consistent with my training, I did train more consistent than last time and for a longer period. I think overall I "assumed" I was in better condition and thought I was going to make a huge gain in time this go around.

1/2 - 3/4 mile walk followed by more water/gatorade and a fruit cup. The fruit did not go down well and I was right back in my sickly feeling for the next 15-20 mins wondering if I was going to upchuck again. I didn't.


Drinking salt water, using an unfamiliar gel & lack of more consistent training.


Being that this was my very first triathlon event 4 years ago, this race holds that special place for me. I love the Xterra races. Similar to CrossFit for me, they aren't flat or mundane. The trail rides/runs keep you mentally active or you will find yourself in the bushes.

I am happy I finished this race again. Though I have had less than desired results both times I love this race and am now accepting that "Yes - I can finish it - even struggling. But I don't have enough God-given talent to NOT have a better training plan, one that includes nutrition, to do anymore than just finish.

I would like to get into the MOP or FOP at some point and know that I will have to work harder for that to happen. This really makes me reconsider whether to attempt the Oly instead of the the HIM scheduled for October.

Great day - nonetheless! I finished!