Fleet Feet Aquathon Series: Race #4 - Aquathlon

This was my third open water swim and second one where the start was crowded. I'm starting to get the hang of it. The start was kind of nasty in terms of getting hit although I didn't hit anyone in this race as I have in others. There were a lot of people in wet suits which I thought was kind of surprising as the water was warm and the course only a thousand yards.

An older gentlemen (who was of course in my age group as I guess I'm older too) came up to me before the race (Shaun) and asked me what age group I was in. He may not know it but he kind of made me feel cool as he said he was trying to keep up with who his competition was. He was pretty far ahead of me in the swim if the truth be known but I feel like I'm starting to look like a person who does triathlons which pleases me.

I know I've got some improving to do but overall I was happy.

Don't know how I could have avoided the crush at the start but I'd sure like to figure out a way.

Will say I think I now understand the purpose of the dolphin kick which I always thought was something only elite participants should be concerned about. Now I think it is something I might want to incorporate into my swim.

Also think I'm getting close to the point where I won't feel the need to breathe every two strokes. I'm not going to rush this issue but I know it is some low hanging fruit I have available.

Everyone I talk to participates in a Masters swim class. Know I need to do this too.

Over half the participants were in wet suits (I wasn't) which I thought was interesting. I thought my transitions would be much faster than everyone else but it was only average. I should be able to pick up at least 45 seconds here but I still view the transition as a bit of a break and don't feel the need to rush.

I'm thinking about not wearing socks in the next event. Will have to try it in training first, throw some sand in my shoe and see how it feels to run.

The guy next to me brought a small pail of water. I should do that too.

Hey I felt pretty good about the run. The reality is that in a straight 5K I'm not going to run much faster than 25 minutes so I felt good about 25:36. I can't bring myself to hurt in these things anymore so while I work hard I was pleased.

Wouldn't change a thing although I am going to work hard over the month of August to keep the biking miles up and eating down. I think the less I weigh the better things like this will go.

Had some good fattening and sugary snacks. Always nice to indulge a little after an event.


Well it is a short race in fairly comfortable weather so I'd say absolutely nothing!


I love smaller events with low entry fees like this. Can't believe I waited until the 4th event to begin participating.