I was not expecting the crunch and turmoil of the mass start. Even though it was not a huge crowd I was almost overwhelmed. This was one of the first times I have ever been uncomfortable in the water. After we got spread out I was okay.

I was in no hurry. I was there to complete not compete.

I rented wheels from RACEDAYWHEELS dot com and they were a lifesaver. I really felt a difference in speed/power ratio. I had decided to limit my power output so I would not burn out on the run. I LOVE POWERTAP and the ZIPP 808 / 404 combination. Rode with my SIDI moutain bike shoes and my TIME ATAC pedals because that's what I like and I was there to complete not compete.

Nothing. I took my time. It was good.

Took my time. Sat down changed socks and put on my tights.

My legs were feeling okay coming off the bike. After the first couple of miles my left hip began bothering me. Since I had no aspirations of competing I was okay with walk/run. After the first half I could no longer run (once my hip goes it causes quad and knee issues and since I did not want to sacrifice the next month for this event I found a quick walking pace and went with it.

My left hip. Short preparation/training time. I decided to do this in November so I had to go from 30 mile training rides and 6 mile training runs to something that would get me through the Iron distance.
My inability to eat carbohydrates made fueling difficult. I had some beef jerky and some peanuts.