Toyota Challenge September (Page 2)

A quick look at your logs shows not much training. I don't know if you don't record it all here or what. So, IMHO, based on your logs I'd say you don't have the time in on the bike or run. You seem like a solid swimmer (based on your race reports) and the swim distance b/t a oly and 1/2 is not that much different. I'd be careful. My opinion, do the "mini" distance and save the 1/2 for next year.

Hey, guys.  I need your advice.  I did my first tri back in June at Alum Creek.  It was a 400-some yard swim, a 12 mile bike and a 2 mile run.  The swim was very tough for me.

Since then, I've been really focusing on swimming because I want to do one more tri this season and it is my weakest sport.  I'm struggling between doing the Toyota and a Women's tri in Akron.  I live in Highland County and Akron would be 3 hours away, but it could be a fun little solo getaway for me.

While I have improved some in my swimming, I'm very nervous about doubling the distance I barely did in my first tri.  My last tri was around 400 and the Toyota's like around 900.  The one in Akron is only 250 yards.

I've been doing some OWSs and am feeling more comfortable in open water, but, then again, there aren't 100 people around me crashing into me.

I'm thinking that I'd like to finish out my first season on a positive note and the Akron tri would do that.  Plus, next year I'll be better and there are a ton of races closer by in Cincinnati, Dayton and Columbus where I won't have to travel as far.

Check out my logs and let me know what you guys think.  Thank you so much.

That's a good idea.  A good friend of mine is the Y's aquatics director.  I should bring her along on one of my OWSs this weekend.  Thanks, newbz.

Me too. My wife's parents have agreed to take the kids for the weekend so I can race. (I love my in-laws, really) I feel like I didn't do as well as i should have at the GBC, so I'm doing this one as a 1/2 iron distance as well.

David

Time to bump this back to the top since the race is 6 days away. I just checked the weather report, it should top out that day at 76, but a chance of showers. If the rain holds off it should be a great day to race. Nothing the the sufferfest at the GBC.

Anyone want to meet up saturday for a bike of the course?

I think each loop is 18.65 miles long. I was thinking a Saturday afternoon ride, slow, maybe 14-15mph just to get reaquanted with the course. Sub 4:40! Wow!

I hope that's a HIM goal and not your oly goal.

Yep, Noon to 5pm.

Hey, guys.  I just went to HFP's site to see if they'd listed me yet as registering (they haven't), but they had an updated message.  It said that the water temp is now 78 and they expect it to drop 2 degrees by Sunday - and to bring your wetsuit!

I don't have a wetsuit and am not in a position to buy or rent.  Should I be freaking out?  I swim in my sister-in-law's pool when it's been 76 and 77, and, after the initial adjustment, I am fine.

Aaagggghhhhh!

You'll be just fine. You'll be cold when you first get in but after a few minutes you'll get numb and won't even feel how cold it is anymore .

Seriously, once you warm up the water will feel great. I wouldn't stress about the water temp. Instead be very happy that the air temp is going to be mid 70's, should make for a fast run and possible PB.

OK.  I feel better.  Thanks for the reassurances.  That is a very "glass half-full" type attitude you got there.  You're so right: the comfortable temps will make the run (and bike) great.  Thanks, David!

Yeah, I am sooo excited.  As long as I don't get confused and hit the Oly or HIM routes, I think I'll be OK.

Ladies and Gentlemen:  Meet the Toyota Challenge Sprint Triathlon's dead last competitor.  Woo hoo!  I came in 195/195, though there were a couple DNFs, so maybe I came in 195/197?

I had an absolute blast doing this and, for my first season and second tri, that's good enough for me.  Next season, though, when I have an actual road bike and will have been able to devote more time to swimming, I'll start fighting my way up those rankings.

I'll have my race report up later if anyone wants a good laugh.  I can't wait to read how the rest of you guys did.

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