I'm new to triathlon

Hi Todd, and welcome! It sounds like you are more than prepared to ride and run, and you'll find that lots of triathletes struggle with the swim at first. There have actually been quite a few swimming posts in the Tri Talk section of the forum just in the last few days, so make sure to check those out. Do you know how to swim? Lessons are a great way to build confidence and make sure you're learning the right technique.

Thanks Laura. I'll check out those posts. While I do know how to swim, I've never done any type of competitive swimming so I haven't focused on form.

I've registered for the shortest swim I could find to get started with (300yds), but I'm still nervous about it.

Welcome to the party!

One suggestion I have on how to get over the swimming nerves is to try to swim in the water where the race will take place. I've been doing tri for 7 years and I still get nervous about the murky water of the lake where the first tri of the season take place. So, I go for a few practice swims in the days and sweeks leading up to the race to calm my nerves.

One of the nice things about tris is that you can "warm up" before the race. Spending some time in the water on race morning will go a long way towards making the swim as fun as possible!

If you like Beer - come join our mentor group. We'd love to have you. Here is the link: http://beginnertriathlete.com/discussion/forums/thread-view.asp?tid...

There are plenty of expert swimmers who can really help you (as they help me).

Thanks Dave. That's an excellent suggestion. I will try to get some time in the water pre-race. I appreciate the tip!

Finding a 300 yd swim for your first tri was a smart move. My first tri was last year...a sprint with a 450 yard swim. Get the swim under your belt and prepare to get hooked to this sport as you cross the finish line of your first triathlon. There's nothing quite like the first time.