Shortly into the swim, I panicked, started hyperventilating, and was pulled from the water.

I thought I had done everything "right." I was seeded in the last wave, positioned off to the side. I was near a couple of people, but that was ok - I had done laps in crowded lanes on purpose. I had practiced for three weeks in a rental wetsuit and was comfortable in it. But a little ways out into the water, I felt like I was choking. My airways were constricting. I rolled onto my back, but it didn't help. I dog-paddled because I couldn't handle my face getting wet (that was new). I saw the sag kayaks looking at me. I rolled over again and started worrying about missing the swim time time cutoff. Then I wanted the wet suit OFF. NOW. That was it. I was pulled in, mortified, and went over behind a truck and cried a little (BTW, thanks to James for watching after me).

What the heck happened? I was ready for this race, well-rested and loose. Swimming has never been a problem for me. I'm a native Floridian, fer cryin out loud. I can't remember not being able to swim like a little fishie.

The day was saved by going home, cleaning up, and watching the bikes zoom by, then heading to the stadium, volunteering with the bag transfers, and seeing finishers. Bright spots of the day: seeing Keith, Ward, Antonio, Katie, and Gwen zoom past on the bike. At the finish line, Stephanie and Dorothy (hi doc!) crossed together looking strong and happy. Keith blazed in looking like a pro with his ever-present smile. Way to go! Bethany bravely faced her injuries - don't know how she finished, but her courage was/is inspiring. And Brad found a way to pick up his race packet, go to the UVA game, and finish a tri in 24 hours. His training secret: "fried chicken and beer." Wow.

So it's time to analyze, correct, and drive on. No wallowing. Seems that open-water swimming *is* different. I have to admit that and do it. Often. Also need more confidence in my swim stroke and the ability to swim "from the gun" rather than from an easy warmup.

Now that my season is over, I'm having surgery to repair some cycling-caused nerve damage in my left hand and elbow that's been bugging me since May. Muscular wasting means I can't put it off until November, so I've deferred the Marine Corps Marathon until next year. After surgery, I'll join Reston Masters (thank you for the advice, Michael!) and be out with the Saturday rides until the trail freezes. I've asked Santa for an indoor trainer and will be in the Spring Hill weight room this winter. Oh yeah, losing a pound or two won't kill me, either.

CongRATs to all of the finishers and a big thanks to everyone who provided so much advice and support in this, my first year. Stv, you rock! Huge thanks also to Dave for running a top-notch event. Like the California governor says, "I'll be back." :D