Hitting the 50's and new to Tri's

Hi there,
This is my first year of trying some Tri's. I've been running the last couple of years and wanted to find a new challenge that might be a little easier on my body then all the running pounding! I'm not sure this is easier but I think I'm in better shape now with varying my workouts.

I just started swimming in February and did my first sprint tri in March. My goal was to finish which I did. I have to say, I was halfway to the first buoy in the swim and I didn't think I could finish. The swim was the scariest thing I've ever done but what a great feeling to stick with it and finish it.

My second sprint tri was in June. It was on my 'home' course and it was great to compete in familiar territory. I actually felt like I was racing! 

I've signed up for one more sprint in August which will be an ocean swim (yikes!) and an Olympic in September. My goal for the Olympic will be to finish and keep all of these experiences on the 'fun' side of the fun meter My husband did his first Tri for Fun a couple of weeks ago and has signed up for the last 2 races with me which makes it even more fun.

My goal in all this is to challenge myself, have some fun, lose some weight and stay healthy into my 50's. I think knowing my big 5-0 was coming up pushed me into trying something new and I have loved it so far.

I'm really looking forward to new mentor groups starting up later this year, meeting new people and exploring this site since it seems to have a ton of info!
Johanne