Ironman Louisville - TriathlonFull Ironman

The swim was good. I was surprised at the amount of contact even thought it was a TT start. I thought the navigation was very easy because of swimming parallel to the shore and the bridges. Near the start of the race (maybe in the first 400 yards) I hit, what felt like, a large metal object. The only thing I could think it was is an old pilling form a dock or something. I was very surprised when my hand actually hit the bottom of the river after passing the end of the island (a few people were even were walking here). The shallow water only lasted few a min. but it was odd.

My swimming needs to improve. Honestly, for this race at this time I wouldn't change anything.

I decided not to wear my tri shorts in the water. Therefore, I needed to make a full change in T1. I also decide before the race started not to wear socks on the bike because the wet grass/mud in the changing tent would have soaked into the socks.

I was happy with T1

This course had more hills than I expected. My biggest concern was the constant shifting. I don't change gears often when when training. The bike performed very well and shifted smooth for the most part (two times I had an issue getting out of the big chain ring). I used the downhills to sit-up and stretch my neck and back. I got passed by a lot of people tucked in an aero position but I easily passed these people again as soon as the course went back uphill or flattened out. I loved blasting through LaGrange and passing the crowds of people. I didn't eat (any maybe drink) enough. I just didn’t feel hungry and I can't get myself to eat when I am not hungry.

The bike is the strongest of the three events for me. I will work this winter to tweak my technique. I should take a trip this winter out to the west coast and find some hills to ride. I need to figure out a nutrition plan that will keep my energy level up going into the run.

Again in T2 I made a full change into running shorts and a new top.

I was ok with T2.

The run was a bit deceiving to me when going out on the first loop. It felt it was a long way to the turn. I decided to stick to my plan and walk the aid stations so I could try and stay hydrated and take in some nutrition. I could not force myself to eat another gel. I went with Gatorade, pretzels, oranges, and water for the most part. I snuck in the occasional cookie and coke too. On the second loop I took some chicken broth at two different aid stations. The best part of the run was a great big hug I got...hmmm maybe deodorant in T1 and T2 isn't a bad idea because you never know who you might meet out there :)

My running and nutrition on the run needs to improve.

Massage and walk back to the hotel.


Lack of nutrition! I had a plan but near the end of the bike and during the run there was just no way I could eat another friggin gel.


This was a great race. I actually got teary-eyed when I crossed the finish line. The volunteers/spectators were awesome. I have no idea the name (I am sure he told me but I don't remember much after crossing the line) of the volunteer who stayed with me until I was safe at the convention center but he was awesome.