Got into a good rhythm and stayed relaxed throughout. Actually passed some people! Good turn/acceleration around the buoy, but difficulty sighting on the way back as the sun was just on the horizon and right our faces

Could have picked up the pace a bit for this 500yd swim, would have been a more appropriate pace for 750-1000yds

Pulled a pair of bib shorts over my jammers and toweled down my feet for socks and cycling shoes. Was a bit spaced after the swim and "rested" in the transition area longer than I liked.

I'll try a regular speedo next time and see if the bibs fit better. Brought a cycling jersey but never put it on. Might be able to do the bike without socks, but I'd just have to put them on during the run transition anyway.

Took it pretty easy for most of the ride. Other riders were very courteous and volunteers were excellent. Tempted to chase down a few people who passed me and/or bridge to a group ahead, but reminded myself to "race my own race".

Could definitely push the pace more on this ride, but didn't know exactly what the course had in store ahead of time.

Moved a lot quicker through this transition, but had to stop and tie a shoe that I knew was too loose.

Make sure shoes are tied comfortably BEFORE leaving them in the transition area (duh)

Very pleased with this run - my second ever timed 5k and 25sec faster than a 5k event I ran at the beginning of the month. Paced well and told myself to kick it up a notch at the small hill on the way back.

Still had a lot left at the finish and need to find my true 5k pace

Had a bottled water and an apple, did some stretching with a view of the lake


Being my first tri, I really didn't know what to expect or plan for in terms of pace for each leg. Definitely could have gone harder in each portion of the race.


The combination of a shorter than average open water swim, with a staggered start in calm waters, along with lots of well-organized volunteers and a nice flat-to-rolling Ohio ride/run make this an excellent tri for a first-timer like me. Looking forward to next year.