Iron Pig Duathlon - Duathlon

Started about 3rd row back. After race start I settled into the rear of the lead pack. I felt it was a little faster than what I had planned, but I felt OK with the pace.

Not sure given the final result, but I would like to see how my overall time might have changed had I taken it easier on the first run.

Terrible T1. I didn't take into account that I'd be running with gloves. I couldn't feel my helmet buckle in order to connect it properly. Cost me some time.

Practice putting on helmet with gloves, or not wear gloves.

I could tell immediately I took the first run a little too quick. Legs were heavy on the bike. I knew my bike leg would be weak. Went 12 days without any cycling due to taking a vacation just prior to race. I did get in a couple of trainer rides race week though. Did start getting cramp in right calf on the inbound leg. Hoped it would work itself out prior to run #2. Was able to stretch it out a little while on the bike.

Not take a long vacation without any way of cycling prior to race.

Much better T2, Felt smooth.

Nada

Still was having mild cramping issues on the right calf coming out of T2. I could feel it trying to bind up, but I knew the jarring/vibration of running on the pavement would kind of help it. Went away after the first half mile. I was able to settle into a pretty good rhythm. Cardio felt great. I passed a guy in my age group at mile 1 that had passed me on the bike. I knew at the turn around I had it in the bag and picked up the pace a little to try to stay ahead of a fellow team mate (female), but she ended up passing me on the last mile. She's fast! But she did push me to run faster and try to keep up.

I don't think anything. I felt really pretty good coming out of T2 (except for the calf thing), and I felt confident that I could catch and pass my fellow age grouper.

Walked around the finishing area for a bit before walking back up the run course to cheer for my wife.


Two things: 1. I think I went out too fast on run #1.
2. Limited cycling 2 weeks prior to race.


Excellent early season race. It is very organized and run very well. A ton of giveaways. Gels, bars, beer, food, etc. However, I must say that the airport personnel (the race takes place at an airport), are rude and you get the feeling very bluntly that they don't want us there. It definitely takes away from a great race venue.