I started at the back of the group and quickly realized I made a mistake. I started too far back for my ability and had to dodge a bunch of people back floating, side strocking, etc. I passed a bunch of people on the swim. My swimming has improved and I need to start mid pack. My time would have been much better.

About half way through the swim I went to raise my head to sight and swallowed a big gulp of water. I had to stop and tread water and burp a bunch. Got run in to a bit when I stopped (my fault). But I never felt any panic.

Start mid pack instead of in the back.

Had to run a long way to T1. I think the mats were by the water so this time included the run.

nothing

I don't have many hills near me and I didn't get a chance to run or drive the course. In my area, I pretty much keep the crank on the middle ring and cycle the back gears up and down. On this ride, I went from granny gear (front and rear) to big gear (front and rear) multiple times. I definitely need more practice but didn't do too bad. I passed lots of people on the bike. I hit 41 mph on one of the downhills and 30+ many times (never been above 27 before that). I also hit 6 mph on many uphills in granny gear. It was fun! I can tell my increased bike training is starting to pay off.

Nothing

nothing

The run was really hilly. I felt pretty good considering the heat. Again, I think my increased bike volume is starting to help. With the heat and hills, my main goal was not to walk any hills, and I didn't! It was hot and the water was very cold at the water stops. I took a big gulp at the first water station and poured the rest on my head. A minute or two later, I got a stitch in my side. I didn;t walk but I did slow down while I pushed on the stich for a minute or two. I didn't put two and two together until I did the same thing at the second water stop. It was only a 3 mile run so I really didn't need any water, but it was cold and hit the spot when it went down. So after the second water stop and second stitch I was strugeling up a big hill pushiing on my side and two guys I passed on the bike passed me from my age group.

Bike more and run more. I've never been a fast runner so this time was expected.

Drank a bunch of water and gatorade then left. I knew no one at the race so had no reason to hang out in the heat. Racing with friends and having family there is much more fun than going solo. I did have a great time though. Came home and went out to lunch. Ate 3/4 of a pizza. Dinner was half of another pizza. I'm still hungry....


Lack of hill training and generally being a slow runner.


The event was well organized and the volunteers were great! I'll definitely consider this race next year.