Chatahoochie Sprint - TriathlonSprint

The outside weather was 51 degrees, so I was lookin forward to jumpin into the water at a warm 70 F. I had been working hard on my swim for awhile and felt pretty confident with my swim. As most of you know, the first time you swim in a race, it can be a bit nerve racking, with all the commotion and such. Not altogether happy with 16 minutes

I wouldnt do much differently, when i made the turn to come back, i got my senses together and really focused on my stroke, as stated above, I just had to get the experience of swimming among a group of people. I will be much better next time with the experience under my belt. I should have been 14 minutes and under and I will do that next time.

Not really sure what my T1 time was, there were no timing chips at this race, but didnt have any problems, I wiped off my feet threw my socks and shoes with helmet on and I was off. I'd say no more than a 2 minutes.

nothing

This is where my problem began. Hilly course, I do just fine on the bike and train quite a bit on hills. Cruising along making very good time and BAM! I cramp in both my right and left calves. Talk about some pain! Yelped, got off my bike, tried to stretch out, in lots of pain, think I've stretched them out, get back on the bike, and 10 seconds later, Wham, same thing. During this 7-10 minute period of cramping, i was in pain, but nothing more painful than watching numerous people pass me as I stretch alongside the road. Thankfully, i jump back on the bike and i have no more cramps, just the aftermath soreness of having leg cramps.

Open to suggestions. I read a report on here about Nuuns? I spoke to someone about this and he told me it was a freak thing, and that according to him I did everything right. I hydrated all week long up to the race. Ate a carb dinner the night before. Ate a bananna, PB bagel,Powerade before the race. As well as stretching. Can't really do much more than that can you, but like i said, I'm open to suggestions.

No more than 90 seconds, jumped off my bike, threw my shoes on, sucked down a gel and off i went.

Started the run, had to stop for 30-40 seconds on the first hill to stretch my calves again. Hilly course but thought I did well under the circumstances

Not get cramps.

walked, stretched, took pics with family and friends, including my two boys(3 and 1), they made me a sign...super cool.


Cramps


I'll be honest, I was happy with 1:37 for my first tri. But I'm excited about my next, because without leg cramps, who knows how much better i would have done. I would like to give MANY MANY thanks to good friend and fellow BT'er who inspired me to take up this sport. It has changed my life. 2 years ago I was almost 200 lbs and couldnt run to the mail box. Now at 148 lbs. completing my first tri with numerous road races already under my belt including a half marathon, I'm lookin forward to my next race! I'm a better and healthier person now than i was 2 years ago, not only did i do it for me, but I did it for my two little ones, Aidan and Noah. Hoping to be a good example for them for many years to come. Love you guys!