My goal was to feel comfortable and just swim without getting panicky and out of breath.
I stayed way out on the right side so I could swim by myself. It worked. I swam a little extra doing this, but I get nervous with people swimming all over me. I felt calm and strong like I could have kept going.

Get used to swimming with people all around. Not likely though.

I was staggering like I was drunk coming out of the water. I am always dizzy after swimming. I have no idea why.
This time is terrible!! I know. I had to sit on my towel and peel the wetsuit off my heels. I got my shirt on...then I can't decide what to wear, vest or jacket...hmm. I finally decide on the vest...like I have all the time in the world. Then I put on my helmet, but my glasses are not inside...I need them to see... So I am panicked. I can't find them in either bag. I am searching the muddy ground. Now I am thinking that I can't race because my glasses are gone. Finally I find them in my running shoe. I put them there so they wouldn't get wet!. Like that really mattered in the long run.

Everything!!

Learn to set up transition.

My goal was to not crash or get a flat on the bike. Also not to be upset if I walked up Devil hill.

My shoes had so much mud on them I couldn't clip in right away. It took me awhile to figure that out...they have never even been dirty before because I don't ride in the rain! So now I am dreading the bike..
At about mile 2, my feet are completely soaked and cold.
I knew when to expect Devil hill so I was prepared when I saw the devil lady at the bottom dancing away. I took it easy up the first part (thanks Kathy for the advice) and then just went for it. I was wheezing by the time I got to the top, but I was really happy to have made it!! There was a nice downhill recovery afer that. I saw both Ellen and Kathy on devil hill....it was pretty funny that we were all there, but I think it made me get up the hill!
The course was hilly but fun. If it wasn't raining, it would have been better. I couldn't see very well because my glasses were so wet.
I did drop my gatorade bottle and then I almost crashed because it was under my tire...scary

Wear something a little warmer...I was cold.
Maybe get used to riding when the roads are wet.

I had to rummage for my hat and my dry socks since I totally messed up my bags looking for my glasses. I was so glad to have them because my socks were soaked and my feet were cold.
It was a muddy mess in there!!

practice transition more

My goal was to stay slow and steady...no negative thoughts.

It took a while before I got feeling back in my feet! They were cold.
I was happy with this time, especially since I walked through the water stops. I also walked up one hill and used the porta-potty..(with a one piece suit on).
I got to see Frank (my friend from work), May, Laura, Amanda, Kathy and Ellen on the run. That makes it so much more fun. They all looked great!

become a better runner

I was so happy to cross the finish line..with BTers cheering! Thanks guys!! This was a big deal for me to do an olympic distance! In my mind I didn't really think I could do it.
When I saw mile marker 5, I finally realized that I WAS doing it!


the rain!!
bad transition times


This race was a blast and I hope to do it again next year. It made it more fun to see people from BT. Especially since my family couldn't be there.
They do a great job with this race despite the horrible weather!