Deer Creek Fall Challenge Half Iron Triathlon - Triathlon

I freaked the F%$K out. This was my first time in open water and my first time in a wetsuit. Of all 3 disciplines I was most comfortable with this piece. I had an all out panic attack and thought my race was over 2 minutes in to it. Not sure why it happened? That is why it is called a panic attack. Ended up settling down by racing way outside, focusing, and literally forcing myself to smile in the water. Once I settled in, I did great.

Arrive early and get in the water and swim before to settle down. I wasn't sure how I would stack up but it appears I am a faster swimmer so I will get up front next time to avoid the traffic. Prepare to have leg cramping. I have no idea why my legs cramp when I swim, especially since I don't kick much but it happens more and more. Think I will try pickle juice and/or mustard before next swim.

Didn't dry off enough and had a heck of a time getting Bike Jersey on. Also getting socks on was a nightmare.

Wear jersey beneath wetsuit and not wear socks.

Very pleased.

Eliminate cramps from swim that haunted me miles 35-56.

Put in more long distance rides. I trained at 41 miles all summer and only rode 50+ 2 times prior to race. Lost power on the last lap. I need to commit to longer rides.

Didn't seem this slow. My bike was on back of rack and that slowed me down a little.

Move bike to front of rack.

Thigh cramping prevented me from running fast. Was hoping for an 8:45 pace but fell way short. Every time I pushed the cramping started. But I never walked!

I'm starting over. If you want to place well you must be able to finish fast and strong. I failed at this. I am not getting any faster by running further in my training, so no more long runs for a while. I want to run 7:30 miles. So I'm going to start with 1 mile until I run a 7:30, the 2, then 3...

N/A. grabbed a drink, packed the car, and went home.


Panic on the swim, cramping, being under prepared for the bike distance, and running like an elephant :-)


This was my first half ironman distance race. I am very pleased but also know I can cut 30 minutes off with some changes. This was a "racers" race. I was the only first timer. Racers were polite, supportive, and experienced. Will definitely do this race again.