5430 Sprint Triathlon - TriathlonSprint

I did one OWS a week before in Maui, but this was a totally new experience for me. This was my first swim ever with my wetsuit and the first time dealing with kicks, elbows, body contact, and the general chop of the washing machine. At least that means I was somewhat close to actually drafting, right. My pace overall wasn't too far off from what I was expecting, but it was alot more work than I was expecting. Having said that, I had to have been going too hard as this swim included multiple bouts of breast stroke to let the traffic clear and try to figure out what direction I was actually heading. If my swim was a little more in line with my bike/run I would have actually had a respectable showing.

PRACTICE OWS! Need to get used to swimming with the wetsuit, dealing with chop, and sighting (I pull to the right really badly).

I wasn't a big fan of running so far across rocky path/parking lot, but it is what it is. Being this was my first real triathlon, I didn't dilly dally, but I did make sure my socks and shoes where on comfortably, had all my gear, and grabbed a drink/nutrition.

Looking at everyone else's times I need to work on picking up the pace; but not much as I need my socks and nutrition and I'm not ready to try the flying leap with my shoes already clipped in.

Didn't have my bike computer, which was actually really nice as I know my cadence, and I didn't get caught up in staring at speed, letting me focus on just riding. I passed several people during the gradual uphill climb, which made me feel better, then settled in to comfortably pushing. Passed a few more near the end where it felt like it was time to hammer. It was a little frustrating watching a few people riding more to the left than they should have - mostly for passing in areas where car traffic was a little heavier. But, overall I'm pretty happy with my performance for being on my roadie.

Could have pushed a little harder. Riding the course beforehand will help in future planning.

First time really doing the transition, but things seemed OK, especially since my AG was racked in the far back corner relative to the bike exit and run start. Again, looking at everyone else's times I could/should be a little faster, but I wanted to make sure my running shoes where on comfortably, I got a drink, and I wasn't "that guy" that heads out to the run still wearing the bicycle helmet (I did see that).

Things will get better with practice.

I guess it's a testament to my running background and training, but I averaged 7:18/mile which was actually better than expected, especially after the swim and run. I heard a lot of people commenting how hard the run was and that it seemed long; but I felt great and thought the course was short.

Nothing

Walked around a bit, then enjoyed some pancakes and eggs (thanks Fleet Feet) and a recovery beer (thanks Avery Brewing).


OWS - I've got to practice sighting and general comfort with the wetsuit. Given this was my first real triathon (1 indoor 10/30/20 minute SBR prior) I'm pretty happy to get over being a virgin. I actually completed the race 5+ minutes faster that my estimated goal time.


For my first real triathlon, this appears to be a very well run event (compared to what I've seen in prior running races). It seems like a good event to start the season for the experienced triathlete, as well as a great event for newbies like myself to give it a go.