scary hyperventilation episode

You have done this type of swim before, without any probelms and at best I can just put it down to age old saying "Sh*t happens"

Most probably it was just some water going down the wrong hole.  I really would not worry to much about it. I am sure at your next race you will be just fine.

This happened to me for my first two races last year and the first race I did this year.  It usually ends up affecting the rest of my race as I can't put out power on the bike and I can't keep a decent pace on the run.  In my situation, it was from going out too hard for my fitness.  I would start thinking to myself that it was hard to breathe and it was down hill from there.  Instead of slowing down to regain my composure, I kept swimming breast stroke.  Big mistake.  Smart of you to stop and catch your breath then continue.

When I relax and think about the pace I'm swimming it's a non issue and the rest of the race goes great.

Thanks, everybody. I'm going with the "sh*t happens" theory.

I had no subsequent problems with the bike or run, both the fastest I've ever done. I'm feeling fine now except for a sore throat.