Long Beach Triathlon - TriathlonSprint

Not bad for a first timer. I was swimmer for many years and finally got back into it 3 months ago. I was breathing on both sides and could see where I was. Nice to now other waves were passing me based on their cap color. When I got out of the water my watch said 15 minutes and change. I was happy with that since my Corona Del Mar self time was 19 minutes.

I would swim harder and pull with the arms more. I was drafting people but they were to slow for me. So having to swim around or go farther out and just try to go for it!

I spent way too much time in T1. However what made the time longer is the timing pads. Running up from the swim to T1 was a pretty long distance. I calves began to cramp on the sand and I had to walk it. I get to the bike and do everything right. It's a sharp turn from the mount line and up a steep hill to the course.

Get different bike shoes with one or 2 straps (not 3), and ones that have the loop on the back of the shoe so I can have them clipped in already. Also I would save money and not do the VIP thing again.

This was a fun course and I wanted to make time from my poor transition. Very wide and open. Drafting happens but there is a no draft rule but no enforcers. People with Mountain Bikes out there, Road, TT's and suped up bikes. Fast dudes who kept on your 6 and very vocal "ON YOUR LEFT!"

Pedal harder. I was beginning to feel the calf cramps again and new this would kill the run. Learn how to take turns quickly and power pedal on the declines. Drink more fluids other than water. Not be brake dependent and when I eventually use Aerobars be able to feel safe using them.

The time says 2:09 but I swear I was about minute plus. The timing matt from where I racked my bike to the run took some time to get to. Which took maybe another 30 seconds for me.

Wear race belt during bike. Figure out where the run out is and rack bike closer to that area.

I knew this was going to be my worst of the 3. Self timing my brick earlier in the week had me at 38 minutes on the run. I cramped up in the calves bad and had to walk sometimes (I hate walking in a run!). I would jog for a bit and try to pick up the pace, then bam! the cramps. Took in gatorade and water at the aid stations. Picked up the pace a bit more down the 1 mile stretch. Saw the finish line and bolted. I was real happy with my overall time when I saw the timer.

Stretch more in the warm-up slow jog to build up on the run. Take more fluids that will decrease the cramping. Practice the course a few times before the race if I do no know the layout.

None at all except walking around to cool down and taking in some food and drink.


Not enough warm up before the race started.


My goal was to get under 2 hours for my first one. And sure enough I bolted when I saw 1 hour 29 minutes. I totally flew down the quick turn style finish and hit the 1 hour 30 min. mark. Now the challenge will be to shave 30 minutes off the time so I might be able to medal in my age group! (LOL).