New guy in Colorado

I've been lurking for a little while because I am considering doing a tri in May.  Not that I've ever been "thin" I decided to do something about my health when I hit 3 bills, unemployment kinda made it worse.  Luckily my wife is supportive, employed, and subsidizing my efforts, I have been working with a personal trainer for the last couple months and dropped about 30lbs.  I have a long way to go, but my PT feels that I can do one.  There are 2 sprint tris within 2mi of my front door, one is a pool swim the other is a lake.   I have some reservations about a lake swim though.  I was looking at pics and EVERYBODY is wearing a wetsuit.  Finding one in my size is difficult, and I'm not a fan of the cold.

Ran a few 5Ks in the last couple months and although I'm slow I have been improving.  Started swimming at the club (Lifetime) but looking to improve my stamina and stroke efficiency.  Looking at getting some one-on-one lessons for this.  My bro-in-law left a road bike in my basement so I've commandeered it for my use.  Researched it and it looks like a 2002 model Trek 1000, fit is OK.  Rode it for the first time last Thurs and it wasn't too bad, wrists and hands were a little sore.  It was just a quick ride (7mi) to see how it felt.

I decided to do a super-sprint distance in Austin (TX).  I have some personal business that I have to do there, so I thought it'd be a good time.  It is a lake swim, but it should be warmer.  My PT said I can borrow his bike case, I just hope it is within the airline's size and weight requirements.  I'll continue checking the website and forums.  I have a lot more reading to do.