I really didn't expect much here. I'm not a strong swimmer and have struggled here in the past. I contribute this to the elevation (6,200f) and the cold water.

I tried to use a different strategy this year and it seemed to work alright for me. Instead of breathing bilaterally on every third stroke, I chose to breathe unilateral every other stroke. This helped me to keep my face out of the water more and allowed my to breathe easier. While I'm sure this slowed my swimming some, it eased the pain of the cold water and increased my confidence.

I am over the cold water OW swims. However, if faced with these temps again, I'm going to bring wetsuit gloves.

Hmmm... this would of been comical if it wouldn't have been a race. In fact, this transition cost me a podium finish.

First, the run from the lake to transition was roughly a quarter mile along a bike path, up a short, but steep hill, across a highway, then into transition. I removed the upper part of my suit, stashed my goggles, cap, and hoodie into one sleeve while running. I ripped one of the sleeves on my suit while trying to get the sleeve over my watch. Sorry honey, I needed a new suit :)

Unfortunately, with numb hands, I found simple tasks become quite burdensome. I fumbled with my shoes and couldn't get the buckle on my helmet snapped.

Wear gloves during the swim to avoid numb hands.

I went hard, but at a sustainable pace. Course is very well suited for getting around other riders. I was really surprised that I only ranked 20th on the bike. A few more miles and I could of passed a few more people.

Swim faster so I don't have to pass as many people on the rides.

T2 was much better than T1. The bike course ends on a downhill which facilitates removing shoes while riding.

Nothing.

This year I was able to pace the uphill section and still hurdle the trees. I felt pretty good about the run, but I thought I was faster than I actually was.

Keep working on trail running, especially long, sustained climbing

Short walk followed by getting into the lake up to my waist. Consumed 24 ounces of water with Recoverite.


Cold water. Numb feet and hands.


When the director announced that the bike course had to be shortened due to snow, I knew I was in trouble, especially at this swim distance. I need the longer bike distance to compensate for my poor swimming. Oh well... collect my XTERRA points for the fourth place finish and move on.