Well this was my first tri, and thus my first OWS with other people. I started off on the far left, but started too far to the front. I freaked out when people started grabbing my feet and ended up starting off way fast (for me). Then I was out of breath, and then I started to think there was NO way I could finish the whole swim. I did some side stroke and breast stroke for about the first 150 yards. Then it started to thin out, I calmed down and the remainder went well. I think the best feeling was when I could see the end and then felt sand under my feet. I had survived, and the second half went fairly well.

Start a little further back in the wave (125 in my wave), but I mostly think just having the experience under my belt now will help in the future.

There was a long uphill run to from swim to transition area, and my bike was on the furthest side from the bike start (and far from swim enter). Bike racks were assigned by number, so it was the same for all my age group. Getting my stuff on went really well, but I was still a bit winded from the swim, so ended up walking some from bike rack to bike start.

Nothing, I think I needed the extra time to calm down and refocus for the bike.

The bike went really well for me. I was nervous about getting clipped in in the crowd of bikers and about the number of bikers on the course. But, it all ended up being fine. There was no wind, so a bit hot. I was only passed a few times and passed tons of people. I was enjoying myself on this part of the course, lots of encouragement from the other women.

Nothing, I rode the course before hand and am really glad I did. It made a big difference.

T2 went better, my rack was also right next to the run start. I was feeling really good getting off the bike.

Well going into the tri, I was thinking the running would be by best event. I was rather wrong. I started off the run feeling good and then after about 3-4 minutes I started getting cramps and just feeling yuck. Then it all blew up. I ended up walking about half of the course, which was a disappointment. It was hot, around 90 with no wind (and this was at 9am!) Oh well, hopefully it will only get better from here!

I'm not sure. I'm started training in December and had a good solid 6 months of training. But, before this I didn't run/bike/swim at all. So my experience with racing/hydrating/running is all new. Clearly I have more to learn! It was humbling, but I was still incredible excited and proud to cross the finish line.

I'm afraid I skipped this one! I talked with my wonderful husband and 6 y/o who had made shirts and signs (what more could a girl ask for). I felt a little better seeing that they were hot and sweaty just from sitting and watching. :) After a little rest, I made the 1/2 mile hike back to my car.


There is wonderful support from all the women at this event. The volunteers were great.