First Timer

Hi Tom and welcome to BT.  You will find that Triathlons can be a lot of fun and BT is a pretty good source for information and inspiration.  I like to recommend newby's read race reports to learn about triathlons especially if you can find reports on races in your own area (not sure how many there will be for races in your area).  I also recommend volunteering to help out at local triathlons.  Again, you'll be inspired and have a lot of fun learning about tris and meeting like-minded people.  Talk to people in your local cycling shops, pool or running shop to learn more.  There is a lot to learn and it does take a while.

Swimming - Look for a group at your local pool.  You need some coaching or good advice to get you going.  Personally, I swim 3 times per week for the last 4 years as of this Friday.

Cycling - Not sure what your winters are like but I spin indoors 3 times per week with a group and a coach pushing us.  Pretty intense but a lot of fun.

Running - Build up slowly and get guidance from runners or a coach.  Don't build up too quickly or you may have to deal with injuries.

Ask questions here as much as you need.  Most people will help if they can.  And, join a mentor group if they start them up soon.  It's a great way to meet people and get a lot of advice and support.

You can do this and it is a lot of fun.  I always finish in the back of the pack (BOP) but not last and I always have fun and encourage others along the way.

Have fun.