St. Croix Ironman 70.3 Triathlon - Triathlon1/2 Ironman

It was raining so there was some light chop, not horrible but enough to get a couple of saltwater mouthfuls during the 1.2 miles. Had to stop once for a few seconds after swallowing a full gulp. This was my first swim without a wetsuit and it went pretty well. Didn't get kicked at all and only slightly pushed.

Could have & should have pushed a little harder. I know I can do this swim in under 40 minutes. Need to prove it next time.

T1 time is estimated since they didn't provide it for some reason. Swim time they provided was 43:16 which included time in T1.

I should have put my bike shoes on instead of leaving them on the pedals. Either that or practice getting into them while riding. Lost about a minute getting them on while on the road.

My main goal for the race was to climb the beast without getting off the bike. I'm happy to report that was accomplished!! Saw many others riders that looked stronger than me getting off and walking, felt great to pass them and make it all the way to the top. It rained for about half the bike leg then got pretty steamy. Roads were very wet with large puddles and a lot of running water across them. Rides where getting flats everywhere, I've never seen so many. Was very fortunate not to get one.

T2 time is estimated since they didn't provide it. Bike time they provided was 3:30:06 which included time in T2

Thank god there was no sun but it was still hot and humid. Was able to keep a good pace (under 9:00) for the first few miles and then averaged just slightly over 9:00 for the 1st half (1 hr). Could not keep it up for the 2nd half and didn't accomplish my goal of finishing the run in under 2. The aid stations were awesome. Every .7 miles about. Put ice in my hat and hands at almost everyone to help stay cool. Stomach was bothering me a bit in the middle, too much liquids I think, but then settled down.

Walked through each aid station and had to walk on the course about half a dozen times.

I left most of it but not all on the course. Didn't want to risk pushing any harder because of the heat.

The hotel was right there by transition. Got my stuff, went back to the room, took a shower, and came down for a massage.


Heat!


Incredible experience, very challenging and hot course. Most people participating where hard core age groupers. It was great to be able to finish with an OK time. Would like to do this again on a sunny day to experience the full beauty of this course.