Hello From Michigan

Hi All!

This is my second season as a duathlete, and I have a biggie coming up on Sunday, the Lansing Legislator (5m/56m/13.1m). I'm very nervous and excited.

That being said, I am a beginner TRIathlete. I have my first triathlon coming up on 8/27. Coldwater Mini Triathlon. 300y/6/3.1 I chose this as my first because of the short swim and because the water is 6 feet at its deepest point so I'm hoping I can put myself @ 5 feet, so that WHEN I panic, I can stand up. (Can you tell which event I'm most scared of? )

I've been taking lessons at the Ann Arbor rec center, but still I have that pesky breathing problem! I'm too good at holding my breath under water, because that is the only way I was taught, years ago as a wee one. But breathing out under water and in when the elbow comes up and out...can't quite find that rhythm.

I'm a fairly strong runner, and I'm no speed demon on the bike, but I ain't too shabby. This swim thing though just scares me. That's why I decided finally this year I just HAD to do it and get through it. I have one other du in September, and the Detroit Free Press Marathon in October, then I'd like to find a (not TOO expensive) private coach and really buckle down to the swimming so that I can do all triathlons next year. I have an aspiration to do Ironman Wisconsin in 2007 before I turn 41. My 40th birthday year goal. Any advice and/or encouragement is appreciated.