Paul Bunyan Triathlon - Long Course - Triathlon

This was a tough swim bc of the choppy water. I thought I might be sea sick since I was up and down esp on the way out. On the way back it wasn't like we got pushed in, but at least it wasn't as rough. I didn't get caught in a scrum with others because I was kinda late to start.
It was possible to touch bottom until the second buoy! ANd some people were walking it as fast as I was swimming it.
Thought I must be very slow, bc it felt like I was barely moving in the choppy water, but actually I did fine.

Wetsuit on and swim warm-up well in advance of the gun.

Pretty good transition for me bc it was so close to the swim exit and the trans area was so small.

Woozy after the choppy swim, which made me feel like I was putzing but actually ok.

I worked it hard because I felt like I was so slow on the swim, tho not too bad. I was moving well on the way out in spite of the wind.

Probably nothing. COuld not eat on the bike. I had chews but I just didn't bother. Ate a banana close to the race so it was OK. Also I made a stronger drink concentration than usual so I just figured that would be fine. Drank the bottle before I got off the bike.

Not bad.

My gum dissolved right away so I didn't have that which can be tough for me. It was fine bc it was a pretty cool and overcast day so I didn't feel too parched.. Had a good run for me. Didn't bonk even tho I hadn't eaten on the bike. Enough Skratch labs concentration that I think I was OK as a result. Drank a little water at each opportunity (3 stops) A little sloshing. No cramps, just a little knee stuff--which I'm pretty sure is a result of an off balance sacrum which chiro is working on.


It was pretty average. First longer run this year at 5 miles instead of 5 k, so pace was slower.

Nothing--kinda sorry for that later since it was a long drive back. Ate three packs of chips after the race. Waited for awards. My first podium at a triathlon and everyone in our group won their division. Lunch at Bridit's Pub, which was really good. Walked around Bemidji and then drove home.


I hoped to break 2:30 and I did by about 2 minutes.
This was my best overall performance all season and definitely best swim and bike. Stayed positive, really worked the bike well.
Also no cramping at all in legs. I really think the Skratch Labs everyday mix is doing it because that is the only thing I changed.


I liked it. RD was a little flighty--changed the swim wave schedule right before it started. Ended the meeting and right to the gun after which was disorienting. But it was a good time, a good vibe. Small race especially the long course. A lot of small races do 10 year age groups, but this was beginner friendly and lots of awards given which contributed to a friendly atmosphere.