Started fast to escape the pack; relaxed the pace after the first buoy. 3rd buoy was in shadow; couldn't see it until I was practically there. Followed the mob and switched to breaststroke for a minute to try to pick it up. Luckily I didn't go off course much at all. Once I rounded the last buoy I pushed hard the rest of the way.

Not much; did the best I could despite the poor visibility. Maybe skip the breaststroke sighting attempt and just have faith I'd find it eventually?

Nothing specifically, just need to tighten things up a bit.

2 loop course with sharp turns; lots of bikes in relatively little space. Goal was to stay aero 50-75% of time, which I think I met. Surged at times to pass on hills: not sure if I should have kept my effort level a little more consistent?

Should practice cornering some.

Close to bike exit meant far from run exit!

Also need to just tighten things up here a bit.

No Garmin, but pretty sure I ran negative splits. Felt hard throughout; just had to keep pushing my rubbery legs.

Nothing; just had to dig deep and give myself a lot of positive talk. This is my new 5K PR!

Walked around, drank lots of water.


Need some more bike handling practice, but overall this was a great race for me.


Very friendly volunteers. Having 2 loops for the bike course was not ideal, but best the race directors could do with permitting issues. Felt proud of my effort!