Good swim. Lined up front/second row inside buoy. No problems with contact (although field was small even with the Ultras)

Nothing

First time in a changing tent with transition bags handed out by volunteers. Went fine although I forgot my Garmin which in the end didn't matter. Think I will go with jammers rather than tri shorts for IMFL to prevent chaffing.

Nothing - Garmin battery won't last run and bike in full IM

OK - this was a good bike for me but too hard for a full IM. So for an Aquavelo I probably got it right. I clicked off every 20 miles in an hour right up to 100 miles. Then I thought it went wrong although the time suggests not.

Stopped once for bathroom break and once briefly at special needs.

Road was bumpy after the turn off onto Andrews Road and then completely underwater at times in the Blackwater Refuge. I reckon the water was 6-8 inches deep. So I just took a central line and ploughed through it. It was worse on the second loop.

Nutrition was slightly light - about 1400 cals of Infinit and 2 Honey Stinger Waffles. 3x20oz water which for the conditions was OK but I'm sure I would have paid if I had done the marathon.

Penalty of 6 mins in overall time - must have been down Smithville Road on second lap when I had hooked up with two others and was trying to keep in that magic space of staying with them for pacing and company but not drafting. Clearly I got it wrong. Thought I might have got penalised when the bike marshall came by - although I thought I was far enough back.

Not draft. I don't like that 6 mins against my name but I accept it.

Massage. Then short 30 min T-run with Rob.


Bike miles. But even so I'm happy with my split even if I wouldn't go that fast in a full IM.


Another good CTA race. Low key for an IM (so I'm not sure I would want to do it as my first IM) but great for IMFL preparation. Lots of small lessons learned for November (see blog) and one big lesson on the draft rule. I'm really pleased with how the preparations are coming along.