Carlsbad Triathlon - TriathlonSprint

Been unable to swim for last six weeks due to shoulder probs, but I felt great on swim. I got out early and was one of the first in my group around the first bouy. I eventually tired out, but I think I was in the top 10 in my group out of the water.

Considering lack of training, not to much.

Didn't have a pre-race plan. Didn't forget anything and got out with the people I went in with. So I would assume I was "average." I popped three cliff cubes in my mouth and drank some water.

Nada.

I hadn't been on the bike in 3 weeks, so like everyone else, I may have gone out too hard. My run suffered for it. My speed going south was approx 23, going north 18. Damn wind...The day before and after were both zero wind. Day of the race was minimal, but definately there. Road was a little rough, but nice scenery. I drank two aero bottles on ride, hoping to be ready for the run, but I don't think it was enough.
Another fun problem was my seat seemed to be hitting a new bone in my crotch (wtf was that all about). Every crack in the road felt like a hammer hitting me in the fun zone. My legs felt good, my breathing and everything else went well.

Train more.

Came into race hoping to put feet on top of shoes, but very steep hill prevented me from trying. I stopped, asked the volunteer if I could go home now. He looked at me funny, then realized I was joking and told me to shut up and finish. Swapped shoes, got a hat and bailed. I neglected to drink anything and should probably had a quick bite of something.

Eat and drink.

First mile was great. I was smiling, encouraging people, thanking supporters, running well, I was the man. Then I hit that stupid hill. I refused to stop thanks to all the people watching in the area, so I did pass a few, but as soon as I finished and came to an aid station, I found an excuse to take a walk....water. After that, I probably stopped 5-6 times. I played cat and mouse with an older guy (60's) the entire time. He proved to me that slow and steady really does win the race. I would pass him when I ran, he would pass me when I walked. The last mile felt like 10, but it was sure nice to finish.
As is the running theme for me, I have been unable to run for 3 weeks due to taking a hockey puck in the foot and having a severe limp. I was just happy to be pain free during the run.

Slow and steady..

Watched for my wife to finish, she was awesome and came in shortly after me. Had alot of water and walked it off. After quick shower and change, hit a local bar for world cup final game and about 10 beers. Good end to the race.

One highlight--about 15 minutes after I finished, a girl came into the finish chute without any shoes on. About 75 yds from finish line she begins to puke. She tried to fight it, but eventually lost it all. She looked a little embarrassed, but stood up, wiped her mouth and ran to the finish. The crowd on hand cheered tons for her and she finished strong. She was awesome...Whoever she was, congrats on giving it everything she had. P.S.--why no shoes??


Pre race injuries.


Second triathlon for me, both at this venue. I have nothing to compare it too, so it was the best ever. Very impress with volunteers and organization.