Ironman Lake Placid - TriathlonFull Ironman

What a nightmare! Not since my first ever triathlon have I experienced a panic attack. It lasted for less than a minute, but it was terrifying. I started wide right (as I did last time). There actually was a fair amount of space and I had minimal contact, but a few seconds into the race I felt anxious. It was horrible. I then gathered myself, started off slowly and eventually got into a rhythm and the rest was fine.

I was relaxed going into the swim. I was well trained and confident that wide right would give me space. I did not mentally prepare myself to handle a panic attack.

A long run to transition.

Nothing really.

I felt good until about mile 90, then the wheels came off. The last 22 miles I was pretty lame. I cannot recall passing anybody in that time. I was passed by quite a few riders. I did not realize the effect of the wind until after the race, I thought it was my lack of training that slowed me down. I also felt that I did not nail my nutrition. I used everything from the course but felt I should have consumed more liquids.

Do more long rides.

They take the bike from you at the dismount line.

Nothing really.

This was hard. The first quarter went well. The second quarter I started to feel bloated and used a porta potty at about the half way point. I felt better, but by then I started to have issues with cramps. The 3rd quarter consisted of run, walk a little, run some more until I felt the cramps, repeat. In the 4th quarter I felt strong and was able to run most of the way in from the turnaround on River Road.

Not much.

Walked to the U Conn study area as I had been a participant in their study.


Not enough long bike rides.


A phenomenal event. Beautiful scenery. Great support. Many very eager volunteers. Well worth the money.