Lakeland Bi-Tri Classic - Triathlon - TriathlonSprint

First triathlon so first open water swim. Went in the last wave since being a newbie - Will likely move up a notch next time as I passed several from the previous wave. A little bumping of other swimmers and had to navigate around some resters. A little anxiety between the start and the first bouy but calmed down and had a decent swim.

Move up a notch in the wave selection.

LOL - My goal for my first triathlon was to finish alive so I definitely took my time here; toweling off some and wiping off the sand from my feet. Generally run with socks so I sat down to put on such and shoes. Wasn't sure if we needed to wear the bib number so took time looking around to see what others were doing - decided to snap on my race belt. Walked bike out with no urgency.

Maybe avoid socks if I can get used to it and maybe run from the water to transition instead of walking. If I wanted to I could definitely cut that time down a lot.

Just started riding regular this year so wasn't expecting much. The hills really slow me down yet but with more riding should improve gradually. Might have pushed my pace a little hard.

Nothing except more training/riding.

Again, took my time and walked the bike in leisurely. Already had my shoes on so all I had to do was rack the bike and take off helmet, shades, and gloves. Didn't drink any water on the ride so took a few swigs prior to the run.

Gloves were probably not needed for a short ride and I could easily bring the bike in faster if I wanted. Would drink water prior to getting off the bike as well.

Started off slow just to get the rubbery legs working and was going at a nice pace (for me) until the heat and the hills combined to tax my energy. Downed a gel pack while approaching the first water station which seemed to help more toward the final 1/2 mile. Walked a couple times.

Drink more water while on the bike and down a gel while on the bike too.

water and sports drinks in the shade.


Where to start? My ACL's (both knees) are no longer functioning, I have a Posterior Tibial Tendon tear (left ankle), A degenerative tear of the medial meniscus (right knee), and very little cartilidge remaining in either knee. The physical issues along with being new to biking and taking my sweet time in transition all contributed to my slow time.


Provided my knees and ankle are still operational I will definitely come back next year. Had a great time. A wonderful way to break into the triathlon scene.