Not even sure where to start. After getting a cramp in my last race during the swim, I was certain that it would only get better, but I have managed to do worse.

I started to the left so that I wouldn't have to deal with as many swimmers and my 1st 100 was ok, but then I started to hyperventilate and it was all downhill from there. My HR was very high and I felt like I couldn't breathe. I felt like I was choking. I had to loosen the velcro from my suit around my neck. That worked a little but I was still breathing very heavy. I spent a good deal of time on my back, trying to calm myself down, which worked a little. A kayaker noticed I was struggling and I held onto the boat for about 20 seconds before he encouraged me to continue.

I finally exited @ 12:20 and my legs were a bit obbly as I trotted to T1.

Get more open water swimming in.

I was very happy to be out of the water. My transition wasn't as quick as it could have been but it was still 33rd / 185 so I was pretty happy.

Perhaps put my race belt on under my wetsuit ?

I have been putting in a lot of time in the saddle and was real happy with my performance. First race where I was able to average more than 20 mph.

The good thing about having such a bad swim was that there was a lot of people ahead of me and I passed a lot of them.

There really wasn't a marshall to be seen on the course and I think everyone knew that. At times, I would have sworn it was an ITU race b/c I passed several packs of riders all working off one another.

Keep riding. The more I ride, the better I am going to perform.

I wanted to make sure my legs would be ok for the run, so I was careful not to go to hard.

I rode a high cadence and got out of my shoes right before the dismount and was running through transition but I over shot my rack and had to go back, so I lost 10-15 seconds there.

Once I got to the rack I got my socks and sneakers on quickly, grabbed my fuel belt and was on my way.

My legs were ok when i started and I passed a few people right in the begining, which was a boost.

It wasn't until about 1 mile in before I was able to get going and really didn't hit my stride until after the turnaround.

I only got passed by 1 guy wearing the Team Javelin gear and 2 speedy older women, so I was pleased.

Had a serving of Endurox and waited for my friend to finish his 1st ever tri.


The swim really cost me.


Open water swimming continues to be my limiter. I need to get more comfortable. I love this sport but really need to improve in the swim.