2008 Heatwave Classic Triathlon - TriathlonOlympic

This is not a big race and even though they start all the women and relays together, it's not a huge wave. However, I somehow managed to get caught up in a mosh pit that I could not escape. I kept telling myself just to keep swimming, eventually, I'll find my own space. I finally got tired of being beat up (and beating others up...to the others, "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to."). So, I backed off with a few breast strokes, found some clear water and started swimming again. The plan was to swim gently since the faster/harder I swim, it hurts my still sprained wrist. I didn't have any pain, though, so focused on swimming smoothly and after making my initial escape, did for the most part. Found a couple more minor mosh pits, tried to draft, but no one wanted to swim straight (or the same direction as I?). Got a little discombobulated heading to the finish because I never saw the last buoy. A few breast strokes and still didn't see it. Maybe it floated away? Swam halfway up the boat ramp, popped up, and started my run to transition. I took a glance at my watch and was totally shocked at my time. I honestly thought it would be closer to 20 minutes. Good start.

Swim more confidently through the mosh pit. I might have gained 20-30 more seconds if I didn't stop.

I ran. So, this is good for me.

Still need to go faster. I was fourth fastest in transition.

I'm pleased that I was third in my age group for the bike. That's significant improvement for me. However, overall, this bike was not any faster than last year in mph (last year the course was long so overall time was longer). I didn't want to overdo it since it was steadily getting hotter, but my strategy was to take advantage of the tail wind on the way out since I knew it would mean some headwind on the way back. Turned out the headwind wasn't that bad. The most frustrating moment was when the park ranger decided to slow down to 15mph and keep all the vehicles behind him from passing the bikes up ahead. Created a traffic jam and no place to get around the traffic. Eventually went to the left (I know, very unsafe, but it was horrible knowing I should be going 20mph rather than 15mph). Found clear road and finally got to the turnoff the Parkway. Damage was done, though, and I would guess I lost at least 1 full minute. It made a difference...I might have placed 3rd if not for that.

I rode well...maybe if I was faster I would've avoided the traffic jam. I did not take water on a regular schedule like I generally do, so I was getting thirsty toward the end.

Put my shoes on standing up. But still only 5th fastest. Need more improvement.

Figure out how to go faster.

My friend said I need to run faster, and he's right. I felt good on the run. After I got past the first mile, I was comfortable and ready to push. I felt strong and like I had a good pace, but I was slightly slower than last year, and I'm not really sure why. Maybe I walked too much at the water stations, but it was very hot and I had not gotten enough water on the bike.

Run faster. Push harder.

None.


Not sure. Maybe the heat. Definitely the traffic jam. But really, shouldn't have any excuses. My frustration is that I know I can go faster. I can.


This race is great. And in my backyard. Great post race food and beautiful awards that I am determined to win one year.