Ironman 70.3 Boulder - Triathlon

I was most worried about my swim since I had never done an open water race before. I wasn't sure what to expect from other swimmers but was only ran over once, and had a pretty uneventful swim. I felt good coming out of the water which is a first.

Swim more and continue to work on techniques

Made a stop at the porta pottie but otherwise it went smoothly. I didn't stop to make a sandwich although the time looks like I did.

Move faster

I had difficulty with my front derailleur not allowing me to shift into the big ring. I spent most of the first 5 miles in the 39 gear trying to get it to shift. Once I got it in the big ring I didn't want to shift back so I climbed a few hills a lot harder than I wanted to. The wind heading back towards the reservoir didn't help either.

Train more in the heat and altitude.

I took my time and changed socks after the bike and also changed into a running singlet. I felt comfort for the run was key.

Move faster

I knew the heat was going to have an effect on me but I wasn't prepared for how much of an effect. I drank a lot of water on the bike (about 130 ounces) and was feeling pretty good for the first loop. I didn't drink enough on the first loop and was feeling it on the second. I tried to catch up but suffered.

Do more long runs in training in the heat of the day. Take more water at aid stations.

Drank a lot of water, got my bike out of transition and found my wife. Loaded bike and gear and headed for Starbucks.


Altitude, heat and lack of quality training.


The only complaint I have is the run course has no shade or relief, and it was hot. But everybody had to run the same course so that's just me whining. This was my first half ironman so I don't have anything to judge it against. I liked the swim start and seeded myself in the correct wave, and the swim wasn't nearly as bad as I worried it would be. Only 1 guy breaststroked over the top of me. The bike was challenging with the hills but not bad. I just fell apart on the run and paid for my hydration mistake. Next time I'll take a water bottle or at least more water at each aid station. Overall I had a great time and will definitely do more longer distance triathlons.