Got a little beat up during the swim, taking a few kicks and other jostling as the start was crowded. It did thin out arounf the first marker. Tough to sight to the first bouy because the start was due east (sun rise + reflection on sun on water).
I did have to stop once on the swim as I heard a whistle. I stopped, looked up, and a surfboard nearly ran me over as a lifeguard was heading over to someone. I don't know if they were in trouble, but they were way off course.

Start my swim a little faster to try and get away from the pack as soon as I could. For my first open water Tri, I'm pretty happy.

Pretty quick transition considering the two mistakes I made (See below). I even had time to grab a Carboom and put it into my pocket.

I rolled my socks halfway down prior to the race. Mistake. I couldn't really figure how to put them on. I ended up unrolling them and just putting them on normal. Didn't take too much time. I also left the transition area without my race belt. It fell off my bike and another racer picked it up and brought it to me (hollering at me). I got it at the bike mount line.

Great bike for me. I had a little trouble with the first time on the hill - but I don't really have any practice with hills. I;m very happy with this time/pace.

I wore my running shoes on the bike so I had no need to change. This definitely cut down on my transition time. Helmet off, visor on and I'm gone.

I really wanted to run faster but I just couldn't. I didn't walk though. I suppose that 9 minute miles are pretty good after completing the other 2 legs, I had just hoped I'd be faster. This is only my 3rd Tri (2nd one in standard order) - so I am still improving.

Try and run faster. I was suprised at the amount of fluid that I needed (or thought I needed) during the bike portion. I did get water at 2 of the 3 aid stations on the run, but had difficulty drinking it on the run. I just ended up coughing. Maybe I need to practoice running and drinking.

Walked and stretched for about 10 minutes. Looked around for SportyJ and StandsWithFist to cheer on some more fellow BTers. Saw Robot and BHannahs finish. I didn't stay for the end of the Oly. I got my bike out of transition (I didn't get caught) and headed home to shower and go to church.


I wish that I had been better hydrated. I thought I was fine, maybe it was the heat. I always have difficulty with pace when running on loose gravel.


Good race. I'll probably do the Oly next year.