Patriot Half Triathlon - Triathlon1/2 Ironman

Despite the wait, the time trial style start actually worked out great - I had the least amount of contact and "angst" of any swim that I can remember. Had mostly clear passage throughout. Some chop as I got out further, but mostly just a nice swim.

Go faster.

This was slow - I wasn't rushing, but had a bit of trouble with my wet suit on the ankle with the timing "wrap".

Not much, just hurry up.

Happy with my bike - I think I went as hard as my fitness level would allow. This was my first HIM with my tri-bike - and the course definitely played to the strength of this - very few climbs of any significance. Mostly down in aero, pumping away. I successfully refilled the Shiv hydration tank twice with water - had not done that in a race before. Still a lot of trouble with the behind the seat bottle holder - I need something different. I ended up tossing my bottle without really using it. I had 3 GU's and water - probably could have used some more calories.

Replace the behind-the-seat bottle holder so that I can have a better source of calories and hydration

Very slow - wanted to make sure I had my socks and shoes on comfortably and get a drink - plus I was pretty wiped out from the bike. Also, finally took a bathroom break (#1) - this wasn't counted in T2 time, as the porta-potties were just outside the transition. I had needed to go since swim, so it took awhile -probably cost me the sub-6hr time....oh well, when ya gotta go, ya gotta go.

Go faster.

It was hot out there. I was very concerned and focused on not getting overheated or dehydrated. I walked the water stops to make sure I got fluids, and took in 3 GU's. I alternated water and Gatorade. My pace was slow but steady - I ran all the "in betweens" including the hills, so I was happy with that. Considering that this was my longest run in over 2 years, I couldn't expect to do much better.

Train more.

My one complaint is that there are very few shaded seating areas right outside of the finish. It was very hot and sunny, and I have no where to go. All of the tri clubs and sponsors had tents, and the eating area was packed with people (and families) who had already finished and were semi-recovered. I just needed a shaded seat for 5 mins or so - not to be found. Also, ice baths were advertised again - didn't see any of those. So, I limped over to my truck and sat on the tailgate to try and avoid falling over. After 10 mins or so, walked very slowly back to transition and went back in the lake - that was nice! Picked up my stuff and slowly made my way back to my truck to load up. Still feeling pretty loopy, so I went back to transition and got some food - that helped a lot! Stuck around to see my friend Edith finish - her first HIM, so a big deal. Hung out with her for awhile, then finally felt like I could drive. Had to get home for daughter's dance recital!!!


Lack of run training and fitness was the big factor. I was generally happy with my swim and bike, but the run was bad. I cant really complain - knee injury was the main factor, but I didn't put in as much work over the past 6-8 weeks after having a very good off season.


This is my favorite HIM for sure - the venue is great, the course is reasonable, the volunteers and support are great, good SWAG, etc. I did it in 2012 and would come back again, despite my struggles on the run this year!