Swim was REALLY choppy due to the wind - wasn't really prepared for that - water temp was a bit chilly but very glad I didn't bring my wetsuit - sleeveless MAYBE but was ok without it. took me some time (too long) to get adjusted to the chop/waves in the lake - probably a good 100 before I realized that I had to only breathe "right" side vs every 3 strokes so I didn't get facefulls of water (which I did anyway). Once I got a pattern going it went well. water was super clear for a lake

sleeveless wetsuit? Be more prepared for choppy water in a lake

Knew that almost immediate after T1 was going to have to start climbing, so clipped in quick (for me!)

nothing

A nice big hill just out of T1 to start things off good. Actually liked knowing the "hard" part was over to start! Started to drizzle at about 1/2 mile into course - never was more than a light sprinkle (thank goodness the severe thunderstorms predicted held off)

pushed a little harder - did better than I expected on time but I also remember thinking "this is a RACE not a RIDE" to step it up a bit. Would have been nice to be under an hour

I was pleased with T2 time - probably helped that hubby was there outside of T2 to cheer me on - knowing he was watching (1st time in 6 years of racing) made me step up my game

Not a thing

Had an awful stitch in my side (it started on the bike) so it was uncomfortable to run (knew I "drank" too much lake water - this happens in the pool when my breathing is off - it's almost like gas pains but no gas). Tried to not drink too much - but took water to stay hydrated - it was humid on the trail.

Probalby could have (and should have) run more

Mentally not wanting to go too hard and not have anything left in the tank for later. Need to work on that.


Excellent venue and volunteers - super supportive on the course at every opportunity! Would certainly do this race again!