The start was difficult for me. I couldn't see the bouys very well from the start line due to the sun. I knew the outbound bouys weren't in line and I needed to swim to the corner which I couldn't see. I tried to sight off fellow swimmers but wound up off course. This cost quite a bit of time. I was able to draft quite a bit on the inbound leg of the swim which was one of goals.

Not sure what I need to do, but some thing is going change. I swim 1:45/100 yds in the pool. 2:00+ in open water. I am going to change googles to something that helps with sun and glare.

Overall the transition went smoothly.

More body glide on my heels and feet.

My goal for this portion of the race was to keep my heart below 130. The hill over Stage Coach road axed that goal. I made it up and over the hill with no problems but my heart rate was quite high for most of the climb. I never could get my heart rate back down to my target after the hill. If you love speed the ride thru Left Hand Canyon is a blast. The rest of the ride was un-eventful. By the end of the ride I was able to get my heart into the targe zone for a bit and was in good shape to start the run.

Manage the climb a bit better.

This transition went well.

My goal was run 9:00 miles for six miles with enough in reserve to run another six. I don't feel I met that goal very well. Although my legs felt good my hear rate was way to high to manange a second six at that pace. Although the pacing goal was met I learned I need to be a tad slower to make a good run on the long course.

Nothing this was a test for the long course.

Food, beer, talking to others.


2 packs a cigarettes a day, un-healthy eating habits, and general lack of excercise for 30 years prior to triathlon.


This is a good event. The bike course is very challenging. The run can be brutally hot. World Triathlon Corp. will be running it next year. I hope they don't change too much.