Tri Latta - TriathlonSprint

Started at the back and to the outside like all the newbie articles suggested. My first 50 to 100m was terrible. I just couldn't get my rhythm and breathing right. I literally stopped for about a minute to go into my happy place and tell myself to relax; swim like you've been training in the pool. After that moment, my strokes were smooth and breathing on point. I did however add an extra 100m or more to the course. Because this was my first OWS, I didn't know how to site. I found myself looking up and seeing the volunteer on the kayak sitting right there in front of me. The pack was about 25m to the left. OOOPS! Oh well, it was a learning experience.
I was also the only one in my age group wearing a wetsuit. I had rented it, I could wear it without penalty, I had never wore or swam in one, It was my first Triathlon and OWS, so I said Go for it.

Try to squeeze in a couple of OWS to practice sighting.

T1 could have been much faster. I took my time getting out of the wetsuit and putting on socks and shoes. I didn't get tired during the swim, but it seemed like the 100 yd jog up to T1 drained me. No prob though, I was having fun and enjoying the Tri experience.

Next time, if the temps are the same I wouldn't wear the wetsuit. That would probably cut a good 2 minutes off my transition. I would also be a little quicker getting on the bike. I can actually use the first mile or so to bring the heart rate back down

The bike leg of the triathlon was definitely the most exciting. First, just to see the top notch bikes rolling by you with ease was awesome. Not to mention looking on the calves of the riders and see people from various age groups and shapes was truly motivating. I quickly learned that you can't judge a person's physical conditioning by their outer appearance. LOL, there was this one guy I kept in sight that I was determined to catch and pass (based on my prejudgement of his stature). Well, needless to say I did pass him at about mile 10, BUT at mile 14 he whizzed by me as if to say "Not today young fella." I laughed out loud and encouraged him to roll on.

The bike was a good ride. I would hit the hills harder. I kind of took it easy on the hills.

Not much to do in T2. Wore my running shoes on the bike.

Probably take a few seconds to do a quick Quad stretch.

Rough, best describes it. Even though I'd done some bike-run bricks, nothing compares to the real thing. I was in PAIN. I haven't felt that much pain in my sides like that in a long time, but I pressed through it. I kept telling myself that there were a lot of people who wish they could be running right now but due to physical and medical restrictions, they couldn't.

I did OK considering I had only been running that distance for about 3 weeks due to the old plantar fasciitis injury I had been release from in April. Overall, I was happy that I pushed through the pain and finished with a smile on my face.

Grabbed some bananas, the famous honey-wheat bread and water. Stretched the legs a little


Not knowing how far to push myself during each phase. A little under prepared for the run.


Great First Race! Definitely a good learning experience. Someone told me when I registered that I'd get more from my first race if I raced with the experienced Triathletes vs the novices. They were right. I must say that now I AM HOOKED!