It was a wave start, and my wave (females under 40) wasn't that crowded. (This was quite nice after all I had read about mass swims!) There was a full line across in the front, and then people scattered behind them... which is where I was. It was an out and back course and going out I could not see the bouys far ahead because of the sun shining directly at us. So instead I just used those around me as a guide. It worked out just fine. I tried to swim in areas that avoided people. I was able to get into a rhythm, although I did stop every now and then to look ahead, many times to make sure there was no one immediately ahead of me to bump into. I got the occasional nudging, but nothing too bad.

I could have gone harder, but not knowing what to expect in a mass swim, I'm okay with that.

Went pretty smoothly I think.

I may want to avoid taking a swig of gatorade to save a few seconds. Probably could have been a bit faster doing everything. But since it was my first time, I'll give myself a break. ;)

My plan of attack was just to go at it. If I burned out, oh well, it would be a lesson learned. Within the first mile I could feel my quads but just kept up the effort. There were times that I thought I should ease up a bit, but then I decided against it. There were two "big" hills which I trudged through at around miles 7.5 and 8.5. When I got to the top since I was hardly moving, I decided it would be a fine time to take in some fluids. Overall I am quite happy with my effort!

Can't really think of anything, I'm happy about this!

Again, went pretty smoothly I think.

Same as T1.

I started off feeling good, and then I developed a side stitch that progressively got worse!! :( grr. I considered walking but I kept on chugging away, much of the time with my hand pressing against my side stitch to try to ease the pain. I did walk a few steps at the turn around, and also at the aid station at which point I nearly went the wrong way... which was kinda funny because the volunteers yelled at me several times to go right, but I apparently was not comprehending their words as I started to veer off to the left lol. Anyway, that was the point that the course was on grass again, and shortly thereafter a girl passed me. With not much distance left, I decided to try to keep up with her. I was able to, and towards the end I picked it up some more to finish strong. I know without a doubt if it wasn't for her, I would not have picked it up as much at the end of the run!

Because I think the side stitch was caused by eating and drinking too much before the race, I would say not eat/drink so much. I was worried about not having enough energy or not being properly hydrated during the race and I guess I overdid it. I will definitely keep this in mind in the future!

Walked around, stood around, did some stretching.


Freakin side stitch!


I am really happy to have made this my first triathlon! Great atmosphere, and it seemed like there were people of varied abilities. It was comforting knowing there were other novices as well. Also, I had heard someone make the comment of there being a lot of 20-somethings and younger. I especially thought it was great seeing the little kids out there doing a tri!