The first third of the race was spent amongst a school of swimmers; I attempted to start off quick and get into a rhythm but other swimmers started too fast causing me to experience their company as they passed me, then as I over took them. I was unable to do my best until the race was nearly half through.

Start to the outside, sounds like the best strategy, or perhaps go even faster in the beginning, but this might risk me tiring prematurely.

I decided to put my bike shoes on in transition; practices at home with the shoes on the bike were mostly bad and I felt this was the safest way to avoid humiliation lol.

I did not do my best in either transition, which was part of my plan to experience my first tri without getting caught up in transition times. I do think a 5 gallon bucket to sit on would be a benefit; balance was an issue for me today that could of been alleviated by sitting down.

I thought I did good, I passed many more people than they passed me. In hindsight, I think I was giving like 85% effort; I could of pushed a little harder but I wanted to save something for the run, which is my weakest leg.

I suppose put effort into it, but like I said that would take something from my run, which is the weakest part of the tri for me anyways.

Again, transitions were not emphasized; this was my first tri and I wanted to give myself the best chance to perform the different legs well. I spent some time drinking fluids and having a bite of nutrition.

Keeping my shoes on my bike and dismounted with only my socks on my feet probably would improve the time. The 5 gallon pail to sit on would be a plus, and spend less time with eating/drinking.

I need to do more bricks! I didn't have too much left in my legs by this point.

I don't know what I could have done differently, I didn't have enough left in my legs. I didn't have cramps or pains, they felt like jello however and did not respond to orders for more steam.

water, bananas, and an apple. A little stretching.


My level of fitness, my lack of familiarity with the course


I don't want to say it was 'the best' because I have nothing to compare it to, but it was a very good event, at least; it was very fun, and barring doing another race next year instead, will happily sign up for this one.