There was some waves and chop once we cleared the marina making it a little more difficult to keep my form. Always seemed to be compensating for my usual left drift but never felt panicked or tired, concentrated on getting from one buoy to next and counting strokes.

Work on navigation staying closer to buoys and improve stroke technique

Wet suit strippers too close to exit, no time to get upper part of suit off. They were enthusiastic, trying to help, one pulling on each arm sleeve, laughing, having a good time.I know I could have made better time on my own. I took some extra time to clean my feet, lots of grass clippings.

Bypass strippers

Knew the bike course except for out and back loop. My plan was to stay aerobic and have a decent run. Decided to cap HR at 140, got up to 150 on some of the hills. Bottle handups went well to fill aero bottle; had an infinit feed bottle on down tube. One pit stop about mile 40 without the stop; first time for this maneuver! Nutrition/hydration good, no GI issues with Infinit/water; extra Gu in Bento bag.

Maybe pushed it a little more.

Racked bike changed Garmin over to wrist strap, shoes on, grabbed visor, race belt, two gu's, one double caffeine for mile 10

Skip one of the gu's since they were on course.

Started slow first 3 miles, watching folks come into finish as I was heading out. Stopped for hugs/kisses with my wife and daughter. Great to have them there. Based on my previous runs, planned to keep pace at 11:15, HR around 140 second 7 miles, walking for a minute at each aid station. Definitely not use to running hills, counting 100 steps, repeat helped. At mile 10 I looked at my watch and figured I could make a sub 7 with a push last 3 miles. Passed a few folks and ran hard last mile. Nutrition: 2 gu's on course/water per hour at aid stations. Worked well. Having your name called out as your coming into finish....fantastic!!

Some hill training would have been helpful.

I felt great, yes tired but not totally trashed. Thrilled to finish. The Post race watermelon and pizza fantastic. We had a nice dinner meal later on way home at Tortugas


Felt I executed my race plan well, can always improve all disciplines and my power/weight ratio.


Race was well organized, plenty of enthusiastic volunteers. Loved the first timers finishers cup. The resort was very nice and a great venue for the race. I stuck to my race plan (thanks EN) and was pleased with my execution. Once again I'm so thankful for the blessings bestowed upon me to do these events and to have a wonderful supportive family.