Probably could have gone out a little harder, but I was nervous for my first OWS in a race setting.

This was a top 5% performance. Much better than I thought I could do. Was surprised to see so many people running in bike shoes. Only about 10% had shoes already clipped in.

NOT have my race belt already clipped. Think about glasses/helmet during run to bike.

Like the swim, probably "coulda-woulda-shoulda" pushed harder, but my lower back/iliac area was aching pretty bad. Rear wheel, spoke broke with 4 miles to go.

Push through pain earlier, and then rest on last 2 miles.

Frigging got lost in transition. Ducked down two aisles too early. Lost 20 seconds finding my spot.

Go to center aisle where the row numbers were clearly marked, even if it was not the most direct route. Also, know what I am going to do with my glasses.

I am a slow mother hubbard. Was frustrating watching people pass me in mass amounts, while I only passed the injured and sick (seriously).

Don't get hurt, so I can do more speed work running.

Wandered around in a daze. Tried to choke down some chocolate muscle milk (Ewww!) Ate a veggie sandwich, water, powerade, got stretched out by a Physical Therapist (Thanks!)


Injured achilles & knees kept me from training fast in the run, and limited my running of any kind significantly.


The race wasn't nearly as crowded as expected. They need to take charge of the swim pen a little better, as many racers were blocked from the start by the herd of racers who got into the chute too early (including me!)

I am happy to be on the 'right side' of MOP!