A very relaxed swim. Only took one brief side stroke interval on the front half and then one on the back half. Most of the race was breathing on three's, but the final quarter was mostly 3-4-3-4. Despite the time, I was pretty happy with the swim. Felt very calm and relaxed coming out of the water. There were some moments of pretty good chop and rollers, which also didn't phase me much.

I started deep to avoid the crowds, which I believe put me in more of the current. I stayed there too long, and lost some time. If have a Columbia River swim again, I'll get to the bank sooner.

Decent time through transition, perhaps a little too relaxed. Only issue was after mounting the bike, my foot slipped out of my shoe and pulled the insole out! I was able to get it back in without dismounting, but it really slowed me down for about a minute.

Get the mount on the bike better.

Very flat course with a general headwind going north and a smooth push coming back to the park. I gave most of what I had, but was still a little reserved to make sure I didn't burn out the quads. Nutrition plan went well (three gels, 2 salt tabs, 24 oz of electrolyte drink and a splash of water.) Maybe a little too much water or sodium, with just a slight side cramp to start the run. I was able to keep an even split, which worked well.

Don't pack a full 24-oz water bottle for Olympic distance. Only needed about 1/4-bottle.

A little slow getting the grass off my feet and socks on, but overall no major issues.

Nothing

Pushed a little too hard in the first two miles, but I didn't lose too much coming home. Kept every mile well under 8 minutes, and had good discipline in passes and not letting them come back! Nutrition went well with one gel at mile 4. Otherwise mostly alternating water and electrolyte on aid stations.

Start a little slower.

Long walk followed by thorough stretching.


PREPARATION!!!


Overall this was a good race. WHY racing always does a great job on organizing and has plenty of knowledgeable volunteers. Great music, great post-race food and beer! My only complaint would be the 45 minute gap between the sprint start and the Olympic start. That's way too long to have Olympic racers out of transition and waiting to start the race.