I had a big breakthrough in my swimming recently. So I was able to swim slow and not get as out of breath. But I still couldn't swim straight through. Stopped to catch my breath a lot - either on my back or just floating. Held onto a kayak or surf board twice, but it didn't seem any better of an option that doing a little backstroke.

I was one of the last 10 or so swimmers in the water. So I got a personal coach / escort / lifeguard. : )

Overall, I am happy with my swim. It was better than I expected, especially since the water turned out to be deeper than I expected. Still tons of room for improvement in my swim, particularly my stamina.

Just keep swimming and building my stamina.

It was kind of a long run from the beach to T1. I was pretty tired from the swim, so I walked the bulk of it. I had a problem getting my helmet on. Somehow it was twisted. But I had my bike in the right gear, so that was good thinking ahead.

I probably just need to sit down to put on my socks and shoes. Or get better balance so I can get my shoes on faster.

I got a high 5 from a spectator, which made me wobble as I started on the bike.

Stomach started cramping pretty early on. Didn't drink much Gatorade - maybe 1/4 bottle.

I was pushing hard enough that I could feel it in my legs. But I was able to catch 2 women on the bike, even though I didn't even see them until I was at least half way through the ride.

I really need to replace the cleats on my shoes.

I can't do any of the fancy stuff yet, so I don't even attempt it. Maybe next year...

I need to build more strength and stamina, so I can run through transitions, rather than walk.

Still had stomach cramps, but they got better on the second loop. Seemed to have a negative split. Ran a good amount on the second loop.

Took half a Gu. Drank a good amount of water and dumped a cup on my head at each opportunity.

Not sure what caused the stomach cramping, but I would have had a much better day without it. I just need to keep building my run stamina, so I can eliminate the walk breaks.

Walked around for a while. Tried to stretch my quads, but it made my stomach cramps hurt worse. Did a little stretching on the ground.


Stomach cramps. No idea why I had them.


Post race food was gross.

The website said there wouldn't be water on the run course. I found that hard to believe, but I brought my fuel / water belt just in case. Turns out I didn't need it. There was a water station that I hit 4 times.

Fantastic medal! It's a merry-go-round, with a spinning horse. My best medal yet!

I kind of liked getting a long sleeve shirt. I can't wear it training (cotton), but I'll wear it around the house all winter.