Horrible navigation -- veered sharply to the right adding 75+ yards swimming hard & fast to get back to the course for the turn, leaving me winded at the turn. Took some sidestroke to catch breath and settle down.

Navigate!

1st time in wetsuit - some difficulty removing.

Practice getting out of wetsuit more easily. Have shoes mounted in pedals, run out barefoot and hop on bike and into shoes

2nd equipment issue: bike computer failed to provide speed/distance
3rd equipment issue: rear brake rubbed wheel - noticeable drag

More hill training; better equipment checking/maintenance

Running shoes vanished - nowhere to be found! 6 minutes of searching. GONE!!

As I was walking out of the transition area barefoot, planning on walking and jogging barefoot, a little boy giving high-5s as runners passed was watching me walk and said loudly "Dad, he's going real slow" -- thanks kid! I calmly said "well, my sneakers got lost, so I'm walking barefoot". His dad jumped up from his lawnchair, asked what size I wear, and insisted that I borrow his (brand new, very expensive) running shoes and sent me off with a "have a great run, these shoes are fast!" We hooked up afterwards and I thanked him profusely. THANK YOU WHOEVER YOU ARE!!!

ice on the knees
lots of stretching
lots of water


Poor swim navigation
Lack of leg strength/endurance for hills on bike
Equipment difficulties


Summer of '08 was lost to a serious back injury so this was my 1st event since August 2007. It was also my 1st time in a wetsuit and I had major training challenges since mid-April (personal, family, work situations cut deeply into training). Given that and given the equipment issues I had -- especially with my running shoes -- I am very satisfied with my overall performance. I see most improved performance in the run, which I worked especially hard at.

The experience with the good Samaritan who insisted I borrow his running shoes was amazing. He showed total trust in me and is further evidence that triathletes are special people.

Greenbrook Racing delivers an excellent, challenging course, is very organized, and attracts an unbelievable field of athletes. Definitely recommend this race.