I was discouraged before I got in. Conditions were terrible. I had booties which I wore for the first time. They filled with water and I dragged them like anchors. I wore an insulated swim cap, which made me claustophobic and cut my breath, along with the cold water. I choked and my heart rate spiked. I ended up back-stroking 80% of the swim. Worst swim ever--just glad to get out.

No booties. Sign up at warmer places.

At this point, I was freezing. I put on socks, tights, a sweatshirt, a jacket, and totally took my time.

Nothing. I could cut 2:30 on a warm day. I just wanted to get warm.

I thought I killed the bike. I guess it was good for the conditions. I passed over 100 people--only one guy passed me. I was very comfortable. Legs were tired from previous day's workout.

Nothing. It was a training race.

I was just taking my time, getting ready to run.

I would run with bike faster if this were an important race

I hurt more than I expected. Shins killed for two miles. I knew it would go away--it did. Miles 13 were lousy. It got better after that.

My legs were dead by this point. I ran a hard interval run on Friday and was still sore.

Nothing. Taper for a real race.

I stretched a little. Ate amazing BBQ--best race food ever. Waited for friends who were volunteering at race. Showered--went wine tasting.


This was week 11 of Ironman Canada training. I was tired and sore before I started. I was hoping to run 6 more miles after the race, but I was done.


They couldn't help the weather. Everybody made adjustments. I think I could cut over 10 minutes if I really made this race a priority. I was happy with the day overall for what it was.