Hawk Island Triathlon - TriathlonSprint

Ran out until water was deep enough to start swimming. Breast stroke is all I know so that's what I trained in and used in the race. All went well until the first turn, where a big logjam of people had formed. I lost my rhythm and gulped some water as I attempted to get through the crowd without kicking anyone in the head. Eventually I cleared the group and ran into a few more slower swimmers before hitting the final turn and breaking free to the swim finish. My fastest time in the pool was around 10 minutes, so I was thrilled with my performance here.

I would probably try to be one of the first individual starters, as getting in a group in the middle of the swim made things much harder for me. Also, my gliding stroke was too short with all of the excitement and chaos. I'm sure I could relax and lengthen out my strokes for a better time.

My first transition. Setting up near the exit meant a longer run to my bike, but a quicker exit. I brought a towel to stand on but that wasn't easy to use to dry/wipe off my feet with all of the gear lined up on it. Felt like I pulled my race clothes/helmet/socks/shoes on pretty fast, but 3+ minutes says otherwise. Lots of room for improvement here.

Bring a crate to sit on and a 2nd towel to wipe down my feet. I didn't practice transitions at all before this race, so I will probably see how quick I can get in practice. Possibly try the shoes-on-bike method.

The course was really smooth in places due to the new surface recently put down. Recently put slicks on my mountain bike which made a big difference. Averaged just over 17 which is not bad for me. Considered taking it easy on this leg to save my legs for the run, but then decided the bike leg was probably my best and just went for it. I passed a lot of people along the way (and was passed by a few on road bikes). Kept exchanging places with one guy in particular which helped keep me moving fast.

Maybe try the shoes attached to my pedals and barefoot riding. Also, increasing my average pace through training.

Took a little time to find my rack space. Popped off my bike shoes and on with the running shoes. Ate all 3 remaining energy cubes as I started the run out of the transition area.

Will bring something bright to mark my rack space better. Will also try popping out of my shoes before entering the transition area and running to my rack.

Wow, what a mistake. I tried to choke down the mouthful of cran-razz flavored gel. Eventually had to spit 2/3 of it out. I spent most of the run choking on the mush and hoping for a water station so I could rinse my mouth. The run went on and on, and felt like it would never end. I picked up the pace right at the end to finish strong. Posted my best 5k time in a race (I've done better in practice).

No 3-gel cubes at once. Possibly a gel shot, or one cube at a time.

Immediately upon touching the finish mat, my stomach revolted. After about 3 retches, I managed to bring it under control without having to actually throw up. First time in a race that has happened to me.


Can't wait to do it again next year!