Other than the fact that I could not stay on a straight line to save my life for the first say 500 yards this was a good swim. Things to know before you go are that there is no warm up and so you need to be ready for that. Also there are weeds in the reservoir which feel a little like reaching into a wad of hair (yes ick) so it's good to be mentally ready for that too. Other than that I love swimming by the mountains.

Nothing. I intentionally took this swim nice and easy because of the altitude.

I am never sure why Ironman transitions take so flipping long. But they do. It was a long run in and out of the tent. But I felt like I was on task otherwise.

I would have had the sunscreen person put sunscreen on my legs. Wicked sunburn.

My intention was to make sure I stayed in my comfort zone on the bike to set up a strong run. I was mostly concerned about the effect of the altitude and dry air which turns out to be a valid worry. I stopped at each water stop (after the first two) and made sure to drink extra water. Still totally overheated and dehydrated at the end of the bike. Miles 108-112 were not good at all.

Drink more water and probably take some extra salt.

There is an insanely long walk - run from the dismount line to the tent. Seriously, ridiculous. In any event I was in terrible condition in transition but I was notably better than many other people there at the same time. Which is probably the only way they let me out.

I don't know.

This is my only negative split marathon - ever. And that's because I was basically a zombie for the first 14 miles. Nonetheless you need to be prepared for heat and sun on this run course. And while there isn't much elevation it all comes in short ups and downs that are kind of steep so hill work is your friend. The course is crowded with both racers and locals using the path which is interesting.

I would really have liked to have run this thing. But I'm happy to have finished.

This Ironman course in my opinion is more challenging than it looks on paper. Be ready for hot and arid sunny conditions. You can see my photos and stuff at amysaysso dot com. If you are up for the challenge they do have a great finish line. I am a sucker for a good Ironman finish line.