I started at the front right of the pack right next to the buoy. My wave was combined with the 20 year olds and the relayers. I started slowly and concentrated on my stroke and breathing. I only touched two people's feet and only two people touched mine. I was grateful not to be kicked.

I rounded every buoy as close as possible. I could have kissed each one. My sighting was very good. Turnover rate just needs to be faster. I have no fear of the water, a good thing I think.

OWS is so much better than the pool.

Practice more. For my experience level and age, I was pleased with the swim. I can certainly get better, but it was a great and smooth first OWS.

I plan to hire a swim coach when I move to the big city.

Long run to the bike. I still need to shave a minute or more off of T1.

Just get faster.

I had a really good bike segment. Set a PR. It was pretty flat, but I was flying (for me).

Keep practicing. Do more speed work.

Forgot to take off my gloves. This was a pretty good transition for me. I could still be a little faster.

Get tri shoes and learn to slip out of them right before T2. Learn to jump off the bike and run faster with the bike.

I didn't like my run, but it ended up to be the best in my AG. I was surprised.

Do more speedwork and get faster and stronger.

Walking until heart rate came down.


Experience, training and age :-)


This was only my second tri and my first OWS. The race was very organized and the volunteers were awesome. I never did find any Gatorade, only water. I did not really participate in the post race activities. I will definitely do another Ironhead race.