The course began in three waves (I was in the 3rd) that started 8 minutes apart. The water was warm but there was a a bit of sea weed in the lake. I was most nervous about this part of the race because it was my first OW swim. The beginning was much tougher because of the bodies and I couldn't get into my rhythm. I was trying to site after about every breathe. I finally calmed down and swim like I normally do. It was an odd feeling swimming without visibility and without the slightest break. The entire time, however, I never felt the slightest bit of tiredness in my arms. After looking at my times, I am very happy! It seemed like I was suffering through the race, but I am happy with my time.

The only thing here would be for me to practice swimming in the open water. I will rate the overall swim as a GOOD since it was my first lake swim.

When I came out of the water I was feeling off balance. Once I got to the bike I regained my balance. The transition was fine. I decided just to sit down for the socks and shoes since I had plenty of space. I don't think this cost me any time because I didn't take my time and I popped up quickly. I figured this may be better than balancing on one foot After the times were released I realize this was a bit long, but I will write it off to a long run from the timing pad to the bike. Overall, ranked in the top 4th of the racers.

I think it went pretty smoothly so I wouldn't change it.

I felt very strong on this part of the race. I passed a lot of people from all 3 waves (and I was in the last wave that started 16 minutes after he 1st). Even better, the only thing that passed me was a car. One person passed me, but I overtook her and finished well in front. This ride just felt perfectly right to me. So, so happy! Just got the race data in, and I am even happier because I averaged above 20 mph! This is a huge one for me and one where the training paid off!

Continue to work on my gear changes, but other than that, it was great.

I had a stupid issue with my race belt and the clip fell off leaving my number hanging. It took me a few moments to put it back together.

I am actually happy with running 10 minute miles. I have hardly trained at all for running because of my shins, so this is a decent time for me. As soon as I started the run my left calf seized up with a crap. I had to quickly stop and stretch it against a tree. Eventually it loosened up and didn't give me problems. Oddly,my shins also did not cause any problems during the race. I was concerned because I couldn't wear any of my braces or tape.

I would be healthy enough to train....

I really enjoyed the race a lot! There was a glitch with active.com that didn't register me, but the race director quickly took care of the problem.