Portage Lakes Sprint Triathlon - Akron Internation - TriathlonSprint

Started off swimming very hard but found myself tiring very quickly so flipped to my back to regain my composure. Used a variety of strokes just to complete the swim, legs did not get as tired as my arms but did get cramp which I really did not realize until I got out of the water.

Learn to swim free style! Buy a wetsuit and practice open water swimming.

Had a bad cramp in left calve after swim which hurt my run to transition. Tried not to rush getting dried and putting shirt on and it seemed to work out better (shirt not sticking to body). Socks and shoes were not a problem.

Nothing, but no cramp would have been nice.

The course had more big hills than I anticipated and not driving the course prior to riding it also hurt. Had trouble a couple of times when I was not in the correct gear when climbing hills. Hands were very cold (did not think I needed gloves, I was wrong), legs also cold (need to get tri shorts!). Glasses fogged up during ride and I carried them for a couple of miles before finding time to put them in the bag below my seat. Passed a few people but also got passed by quite a few.

Really need bike computer to keep better pace.

Did not have to change shoes, just dropped off bike and helmet, took drink of Gatorade, stretch legs out quickly and hit the course.

nothing, transition went well

First mile was very difficult (had trouble getting my legs back from the bike and also had cramp in side). Around the two mile mark started to feel better (last mile was my fastest mile)

Run harder!

Bottle of water and a sandwich (PB&J).


Mountain bike for sure, can't wait to get a different bike. The cold weather didn't help things either.


Title of race was Akron Sports festival but the only event going on was the race (no food or things to do for non race participants.) Post race activities were also non existent. Overall learned alot about myself in my second race with this being my first OWS. Can't wait to TRI again!