First race of the year and I had intimidated myself for some reason. Once I calmed down and settled in I then got frustrated with my sighting. Overall terrible swim, if I had my gps on I'm sure I covered over a mile. BTW, It had started to rain as we entered the water, not that it affected the swim but would on the bike.

More open water swim practice. I only open water swim in races so it's difficult to fix this.

It was raining pretty good at this point. Got suit off easily, sat to put on socks and shoes which were soaked already. It wasn't suppose to rain in the forecast when I setup transition. Sun glasses on, immediately fogged up from body heat.

Double check forecast.

Had some trouble getting on the bike for the first time. Once on and riding seemed like I was all alone coming out of transition. Had to ask for directions at one point because we were winding through the park. Once on the road it was time to get aero but be cautious in the turns. Saw a couple guys ahead of me and picked up the pace, passed a few and was passed by a few. Played leap frog with one guy. Just different strategies on "hills" even though this was the flattest course I've ever ridden. Probably why it was a PR bike for the distance. Despite the rain.

Not much, may continue to push harder.

Very good transition. Having put my speed laces in the night before makes a big difference.

Don't sit, even though I don't think this cost me to much.

Right out of the gate, my right calf started cramping to the point of hurting. Did a run/walk for the first 2 miles. By the time we hit the pavement, you could see the hill and see that you start downhill for a stretch then up. I picked a spot about half way up the hill to stop and walk the hill. Feeling comfortable I ran until a point I had picked. At the top of the hill was an aid station, got a drink and ran hard all the way down the hill and a little way around the corner onto the dirt. I had continued to play leap from with the guy on the bike while running. At this point we chatted for a couple second and dragged each other for a mile. I said go ahead I'm going to take a walk break. I walked for a short period and knew once I got close to the camp ground I would let myself walk with all the spectators. So I finished running straight to the end.

Need to figure out if calf issue is from bike fit or dehydration or what's going on.

Grabbed a drink, stretched legs a bit. Called wife to let her know I was done and to see if my daughter's softball team had won. They lost, so there day was done and they were headed to meet me. I told them the park was packed and I'd meet them just outside the pack as soon as i could get my gear out of transition.


Swim sighting. Rain on the bike. Calf strain on the run.


Always like 3D races.