I was nervous to jump into the water because of the cold. I didn't take a pre-race swim to feel it out. When I jumped in the water felt fine. I didn't notice the cold until I tried to put my face in the water. I warmeed up quickly, but noticed that I had to breath every 2 strokes. I figured this was because of the cold. The swim felt fast due to the currents. A couple of times I rolled to my back to look at Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge. It was pretty amazing. It felt like a huge accomplishment to complete this swim.

I got out of the water and up to the bags with running shoes and a bottle of water. There was a .5 mile run to the transition area. I took my time during this run.

I didn't train for the bike on this race. Life has a way of getting in the way. I was very slow, but managed the hill ok. I have never been on a descent as steep of the toughest hill. It was nerve racking.

Actually train.

T2 went well for me.

The first and last 2 miles are flat. Half of the run occurs on hilly, narrow trails. Passing was difficult, although I wasn't passing much. Midway through the run the course takes you on a beach. I felt like this was sapping the energy from me. Then the notorious sand ladder. Both of my legs started cramping on the ladder. You just have to push through this portion. It is out and back so you know that the return is going to be like.

headed to the post-race food. Ate some fruit and a snack cake.


This was an amazing experience. I got in through the lottery and will continue to enter the lottery every year. I just failed to train properly. The run and bike were over the most beautiful course I have ever taken. Highly recommend this race!