What a difference compared to last race! I was calmed, navigation was better. I stopped couple times because I couldn't see one of the buoys. Las 0.1m I lost my course and wasted some time. The open water clinic certainly helped to reduce my time. Overall I was 3 minutes faster, I didn't swallow much water and I finished with energy. I cannot believe I was 3 minutes faster considering I didn't train swimming at all.

Practice drafting! Train some more. Check my technique

I reduced T1 time almost 1/2 minute considering T1 was longer this race. T1 transition clinic was a great improver. Not using gloves was a good choice.

Check my GPS is set and ready, Get new shoes, the buckle in my bike shoes is not good for transitions.

The first 2-3 miles were great. Tailwind, avg speed was 25-26 mph. Then the headwind kicked in and It was hard on the way back. I cannot believe I did so well on the bike considering I didn't ride the last couple months previous to the race. At one point I heard a puncture noise and I though I had a flat. I spend time and effort checking for my tires. On my way back I discovered it was a roadside tuck helping other bikers.

Practice on the aero bars. Get enough fuel and water. Practice more although I was very happy with my performance.

International distance had a longer transition to the racks from the bike entrance. It was awkward to run with the shoes. I stopped, took off my shoes and ran in my socks. The problem is I got them all full of wood chips. Again, my GPS was in the wrong position and was distracted. I should've taken my gel and water at that moment. I was waiting for a water stop but unlike last race, it wasn't right at the entrance of the run.

Easier to strap bike shoes! Water available, fuel ready. My shoe buckles were locked and I couldn't get them out!. Transition practice helped big time!

I was SLOW!!! Funny, I've been mostly running and that was the leg I failed!. First mile was awful, I was distracted, dehydrated from the bike and because of the bike efforts I had no legs left. The worst part was my mind; I just wanted to give up (a sign that I needed fuel). I decided to change strategy and had a gel with some water instead of the amino they give at the race. I felt much better miles 3-4 but I was exhausted by mile 5. I walked a lot and was not motivated.

Learn how to use GPS in races, I was distracted trying to setup the unit. Fuel, Fuel, Fuel....

Walked, got water, waited for Jael to cheer her up at the end of the race.


Lack of training, I didn't expect to have a headwind. Last race I drank too much, this time too little. I have to improve fuel/hydratation strategy.


I like this race, this time of the year they had more competitors and the T1 setup was friendlier to Half-Iron man competitors. It seems that soon they will outgrow the park :) Thanks to all the volunteers and the police officers patrolling the streets. Thank you!
The day before the race I stayed in Miami with Jael and her friend Charo. I met Jael in a Racheal Wood's triathlon group training. I have no words to express my gratitude for making my race so much fun. Charo was such a great friend! She woke up at 4:30am and helped us, taking plenty pictures and cheering us up. My friends? They had a party the day before I am sure they were hangover :) Also, big thanks to Racheal. Her group trainings were such a success! She was there for her trainees, she called Jael the nigh before to check on her and give her last minute tips. She really cares for the athletes she coaches.