When the kid in our lane got to the end, JD jumped into the pool and started swimming. He was doing good swimming "just like daddy does." I was told I couldn't get in the pool with him (although other parents got in with their kids) so we decided JD would wear his life jacket. He did an awesome job! Later he told me the swim was his favorite part.

After getting out of the water, I helped JD off with his life jacket as we walked fast toward the TA. When we got outside, I wrapped him in his towel while he finished walking quickly to his transition spot. When we got there, I helped him dry off and then he got his shirt, socks and shoes on. At this point, it appeared his tire was losing some air, so I pumped it up. Later I'd learn it had a not-so-slow leak! He put on his helmet and I helped him with his back to the mount line.

Have a spare tire!!!

When we started the bike, JD's tire started losing air. I noticed it and noticed him having some unusual troubles steering/maneuvering. About a quarter of a mile in, the tire went completely flat. Steering became considerably difficult for him and he actually lost control and fell over a couple times. A kid tried to pass him on the inside with about 2 feet of space between JD and the curb. With the steering difficulties, JD fell toward the curb and into this other kid. The other kid immediately began wailing, to which I helped both of the kids up and made sure the other kid wasn't hurt (JD was fine). The other kid kept wailing until I helped him back on his bike and on his way. Later he tried to pass again and asked us to move. I politely told him it was good to pass on the left side where there was a lane and a half of open space! I ended up having to guide JD to help him steer so he didn't fall over every few seconds. He was riding on the rim of his wheel and had NO steering ability. I asked him several times if he wanted to run during the bike as it would be easier on him. The reply from my rule-following son: "No, this is the bike. I want to ride." We finished the bike leg with an achy back on Dad and a tuckered out JD.

Have a spare tire!!

I had JD get off the bike a little prior to the dismount line so I could stand upright and have some relief for my back. Several comments along with way into T2: "Ah, he's got a flat." "How sad!" "Poor guy." JD was tired going into TA, but I encouraged him that up next was his strong suit. He was ready to go as we dropped the bike and helmet off. We stopped for a quick inhaler puff; this was preventative for the presumed tough run ahead after a hard bike. With a quick drink we were on our way.

Run was really good. Started strong and JD took off. He was confident in this discipline. We stopped for a quick drink at the turn-around. Then we saw a little girl who stopped ahead of JD to taunt him. "I bet I'm faster than you!" JD had none of this. He looked at me for an approving glance to which I replied "Go for it." He took off and they raced beside each other for about 50 yards. She ended up stopping while JD continued to run. He totally took her! Guess she's not faster! ;) JD run through the finish line by himself so I could catch some photo finishes. He ran strong and got his medal after crossing the finish line.

After the finish, we snapped some pics then had some powerade, water and Southern Maid donuts. We went to pick up his event shirt, which happened to be in the military tent. My dad snapped a pic and said I was trying to sign JD up since he did so well. After we cooled down (both of us!) we packed up our TA and headed to get clean up and post race food at IHOP. Nothing like pancakes to refuel!


Overall, a fabulous kids event. There were a TON of kids there (~300 I think) and it was still pretty organized. Swim started a bit late, but wasn't too big of a deal. Lots of volunteers with an easy course for the little tykes. I'd let my kids do this one again. We had a blast.