New to triathalons - need advice

Hey man... great goal, you can definitely achieve that. Sounds to me like you've got a great base. You might want to talk to a coach, who can point you in the right direction as far as how to develop a training plan suited for you. It's not simply about being good at all 3, but being able to do all 3 in one day! There are also tons of books (Triathlete's Training Bible for one) that can give you some insight into how to structure your training.

HTH... =)

Great goal to have  ! any idea what Ironman you are wanting to do?

check out some of the free training plans on this website they will give you a general idea of the amount of time it takes to train for an Ironman and other shorter distance Tri's

I would ask around to find a Tri group in your area to join

Take swimming lessons if you need to or join a Masters swim class at the Y or healthclub-  lots of us can swim but are not swimmers so be patient with yourself

run/bike/swim/strength train a lot. I am at the gym 6 days a week some days twice a day -   it takes time to build a solid base

Go watch a Tri in your area/volunteer at one as you learn a lot

sign up for a shorter distance Tri like a sprint or Olympic

good luck to you

good job setting this goal, if you train and eat right you will be able to do it.  The best way to find good deals on gear is either to buy it used or look for good deals online, a lot of time companies put lots of gear on clerance and give discount cupons. 
Hope this helps,
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Welcome and good luck. 

Does you school have a swim team? If they do, go out and join it.  Also look into a master swim group in your area if your school has no swim team. 

As for gear, you can get away with the minimuim, tri shorts will be a great investment because you can swim bike and run in them.  Dont skimp on the helmet.  And body glide will be your best friend.

Freestyle is normally the fastest stroke for most people.  Practice other strokes in case you need to use them. 

That one you have to experiment on, as you learn more, you will notice different things work differently on everyone. My gels and drinks have to be low sugar or I will cramp and have GI issues out training or racing.  You might be ok with high sugar nutirtion.  Experiment and practice during training, just remember do not try anything new on race day.  You just dont know how the body will repsond

One of my favorite recovery drinks is vanilla whey protein mixed with orange juice. Tastes just like a creamsickle! My best tip is to be sure and follow a good training plan. Start with the plans on this site, many are free!