Because it was my first time, I decided to hold back 10 seconds after start. However, when the horn sounded, I could only hold myself back for 5 seconds. Because I was at the favored end of the start line, I ended up exactly where I didn't want to be at the buoy in the middle of everybody. I got swam over, under, kicked, hit, you name it. I started to breast stroke just to keep moving. I couldn't get a stroke in to save my life.

I would hold to my original plan, and stay clear. I lost more time fighting to swim than if I had stayed outside of the group, and just swam my training pace. Even if I swam more yards.

I had practiced my transitions, and it made a big difference. I knew I would be weak in all the events, and thought that I could make up some of the time more easily in the transitions rather than through my training.

Nothing really. Just more practice to get the time down even more.

It felt good to be on the bike after a terrible swim. The climbs seemed long, but I climbed steadily and passed a few bikes. The one long downhill was very fast. I maxed out at 38. I didn't want to think about what would have happened if I had a blowout. The only bikes that passed me were on true tri bikes on their second loop. I loved hearing the disc wheels come up behind me.

I just need more time in the saddle, and more training in the hills.

T2 was awful. I didn't realize the bike in was on the other end of my rack. At first, I thought someone had taken my gear. I ran back and forth like a chicken with its head cut off untill I realized my mistake. I'm still kicking myself for being brain dead.

Totally walk the transition area and orientate myself to the entrance and exits for each of the transitions.

I have not run the distance in my training without stopping yet, so I ran about what I expected. I stopped at each of the three water stations just long enough to drink a cup. I also stopped about three more times for no longer than 15 or 20 seconds.

I just need more time running.

None. P-butter sandwich and water. Hanging with my fan club i.e. my wife, daughter, and granddaughter.


Lack of training time before my first tri. I only trained for eight weeks.


It's a good race to begin with. Fairly short and small, but with enough competitors that you feel like you are part of something. I enjoyed it, and I am looking forward to coming back with some improved times.