Water was good, visibility was great... but I had a crappy swim. For some reason, I had trouble getting my shoulders to go. I decided to save my legs and not kick too much. Fell behind on the first part of the swim. After about 600 meters, I was able to get going and started passing people. But I lost too much time.

Swim my usual way - get going and go all out.

I came out of the water nearly dazed after a brutal finish. Had to slow down and catch my breath.

I did great on the climbs, but the first drop was quite intimidating... slowed down and lost 2-3 minutes there. Got distracted at the turnaround and did not switch into a small gear. Ended up dropping the chain - another 3 mins lost. Climbed out of the hole very well, and the rest was easy. The descent was so jittery, my hands were hurting by the time I got down. I span my legs out so I was ready for the run.

Stop being a chickensh..t on the descents.

The announcement was made pre-race that the aid stations would be 1.5 miles apart. Given that, I brought my fuel belt with me - spent 30-35 seconds putting it on. Also felt a rock in my right shoe - spent a little time getting it out.


No socks next time. Done deal.

The first 2 miles were a breeze, and then the offroad part started... it was rough. Hot, dusty, desolate... and then there was a climb to top it off. Additionally, the organizers decided to tack on the extra 0.3 miles to distance to "simpler to do this so that the half Ironman distance worked out closer" without announcing it - that made my finish sprint VERY hard. Whatever.

Pre-run the course fully, even if it involves jumping a fence or two.

Met with the family, grabbed some food, hung out at the park... fun!


Swim could have been much better, not sure why I sucked so bad. The bike was good, except for the big descent in the middle - was not ready to go full tilt.


Very cool little race, hard and challenging. Will be back next year to medal!