HITS Triathlon Series: Ocala - Half Iron Course - Triathlon1/2 Ironman

Like an idiot I was just standing there, goggles not on, expecting some sort of notice the race was starting. They blew the horn and it took me second to register the race had started! I pulled my goggles on and took off but had to stop to fix and rinse them. I couldn't seem to settle into this swim. I felt like I was all over the place. It was barely light enough to spot and then rained during the last 1/3 of the swim. I expected a terrible time so was shocked when they yelled "3rd female out" at me as I exited the water.

Pay attention!

There were only 2 wet suit strippers and both were busy so I continued to transition and stripped my own suit. No major problems getting ready but could have been a little faster.

The roads were much too rough for my liking and made me frustrated. I had a tough mental time on the bike. I had to keep reminding myself to focus. I didn't bring enough food because they were supposed to have bananas on course. However, no bananas to be found! I managed to take in ~700 calories with 2 waffles, a gel, and Perform drink. It turned out to be enough but had me worried going into the run.

I think I went out a bit too hard in the beginning.

Didn't wear socks on the bike, but I have to run in socks. I wasted a little time with the socks but it's worth it.

When they announced the change to the run course making most of it on the trail, I was not happy. Trail running, while pretty, is really boring. I like a lot of crowd support and there was none on the trail. But once I got to the run, I kinda liked it! I look in enough gels but could have used more water. Overall, I had a great run for me! I was in 2nd going into the run and it is rare for me to get ahead on the run.

I used a pouch attached to my race belt for the first time, and it didn't work too well. The pouch bounced around too much. I'll try some different stuff in practice runs. I should have brought a water bottle with me.

Gulped down 2 bottles of water, stretched, and ate and ate and ate...


I felt very out of it mentally. My brain didn't turn on fully until the run. I also had very little taper because of how my work schedule fits into my training schedule for Ironman Texas. I did my big bike and run efforts on Sunday and Monday, took Tuesday off, then only had Wednesday - Friday for taper.


I signed up when price was $75 and what a bargain! I'll definitely do another HITS race and recommend them to others, despite the small problems. The race was lacking in volunteers and aid stations. The race packet listed multiple items they'd have at each aid station but most offered nothing more than heed and water. This could have been a disaster if I planned to live off the course more. Overall the event staff was very friendly and I liked to extra touches like the bike racks and stools (except they gave me a blue stool instead of pink, haha!). I really CANNOT believe I won the race!!! I know it was a small field, but still, a major accomplishment for me, and I didn't feel I pushed too hard and wasn't too tired after! The race had the best prizes I've ever won: Rudy Project glasses and a fuel belt (I needed for IMTX) and made me feel very special for winning. I got to run through a banner and there was camera man there asking me how I felt. It was cool!! I am more excited than ever for IMTX!!!