Lone Star Triathlon Festival - Sprint - TriathlonSprint

Strategy was to take off fast, front and center then get a pace going for the remainder. Worked *incredibly* well. Felt very strong... only gave up bilateral breathing in the last half -- was very calm. Head-rammed a lady two waves ahead of me that was floating perpendicular to the flow of traffic - grr. Took all my momentum out. But still finished first place Athena -- makes me veryvery proud.

Nothing, really. Felt fantastic

Wetsuit strippers! Got to love it! Ended up with 2nd fastest Athena T1. Bike was racked diagonally opposite bike start, so very happy with this time.

My first mid-race flat tire! Had a blowout about half-way back (8 mi or so?). Shedded the sidewalls of my old, crappy tires that probably needed changed anyway. Changed to my spare tube, but knew that because the tire was damaged, likely would blow, and it did. An angel showed up and prayed with me. I thought I was done, out, DNF, finito. Chase car showed up after we prayed and said, "I have very bad news for you. You have to keep racing!" He gave me a whole new tire, and sent me on my way. I then hammered home like I've never hammered before. Now I have lived my nightmare -- having a flat during a race. Maybe I'll get over it now?!

Get good, reliable tires beforehand!!!

Very quick. Not giving up!!

Took about 1/3 of the way before my calves calmed down, but once they did it was okay. Stride felt strong. I know I passed at least one Athena competitor on the run (I passed someone on the run!!! Imagine!!). Started sprint to finish slightly too early, but finished strong, engaging the crowd. 7/13 is a respectable rank. managed 10 min/miles -- top athena was running 9 min/miles.

train with more bricks.

FLAT TIRE.


Some odd logistics issues and lack of signage. But overall very nicely organized. Great job, Keith -- I had a GREAT time!

I really appreciate the experience of what I went through with my flat tire. The fact that I was able to still finish was a true gift. I'm very proud of my attitude and commitment to finishing strong. I think my times showed that I can really compete as an Athena, and that my 3rd place at the 2006 Rattlesnake wasn't a fluke. If my bike time had been consistent, I may have contended for 4th place. If I increase my running pace a bit (by 30 sec to 1 min) and tighten up on the bike (my nemesis), I could really compete! I'm very excited, very encouraged, and ready to set some goals. Maybe I'll go back to Rattlesnake this year!!