Started off very strong in the lead pack. Drafted well and hit the first buoy with a great time. Started losing ground after the first turn, but found a good stride. Unfortunately, I had major sighting issues that cost me. Still, I felt very strong in the swim.

Make sure I looked over the course before the start. Should have taken my time sighting and been less confident during the swim.

lost a few seconds second guessing myself about the swim. Long ass run to the T area, but I didn't have any problems with my legs moving like I needed them to. I just wasn't moving as fast as I could have.

Get over it and just get on the damn bike. Ran faster both ways.

at the 2nd speed bump my aero drink got jarred out (violently I might add) and I made a quick decision to go back for it. Glad I did because I needed the Heed, but I also couldn't get my velcro back on and had to hold it for the next 5 miles. This had to cost me some time and it was one more thing to irritate me and take my head out of the game.

My hamstrings were killing me, but I was able to just keep mashing in the big ring. Felt decent, but not as rested as I needed to be.

Rest more pre-race, including more sleep. Ditch the velcro and use string to secure the drink.

By this time, my head was out of the game and I was ready to avenge on the run. Still felt pretty good and after passing a few on the final stretch of the bike, I was mentally prepared to attack the run.



Run faster.

Was a little hot, so I unzipped my top a bit to let some air in. Passed a dozen or so in the first stretch and kept picking up steam. Saw the same guy in front of me (Army shirt) that I saw at Kure Beach and just tried to keep him in my sights. Never caught him, but saw him finish.

Picked up the pace near the end and finished with a sprint. Wasn't as exhausted as I thought I would be.

Pick up the pace a tad and stretch out the legs.

light stretching, some fruit and a bagel. Really wanted water, but couldn't find any.


Near cramping, distraction of screwing up the swim and dropping my aero drink. Felt disoriented the entire race and couldn't get my head straight.


Great venue once you got there. Family had to walk 3 miles from the parking area. Shuttle closed early before the race and there weren't any signs after. Aside from parking and no water after the race, loved everything. Will do again, but mostly because it is so close.