2013 proved to be better for me than 2011. Water was FAC. Small field of athletes resulted in only a couple of people swimming into me.

Nothing. Caught some good drafts on both loops.

It could have been faster. Talked to my wife while suiting up for the bike.

Nothing.

This is where the race course review gets ugly. I raced this course in 2011 and the roads were terrible. 2013 proved that little to no road maintenance occurs on Pope Valley Road. Major pot holes and alligatoring all over the course. Coming off the hills at 35mph proved to be interesting. I changed my wheels a week before the race because pre-race rides resulted in my spokes twanging throughout the course. Saw many with flats, one guy with a broken chain from the vibration, and heard many complaints. Course elevation was waaaaay off!

I will not be registering for this race in the future until they allocate some of the registration fees towards road repairs. Auburn International Triathlon does this and the athletes paying the hefty registration fees appreciate it. Enviro Sports, WAKE UP!

Another nice conversation with my wife.

Nothing

Run was miserable. Hardly any shade and 88 degreees. Aid stations were spaced okay. All water and Gatorade was warm, no cola. On the second loop I asked if they had some cold water and they said no. I asked for some ice and they asked me "what for? We won't let you eat it because a guy just did that and threw up". I wanted to put some in my hat and to cool down the drinks. No sponges, just spray bottles. Towards the end of the race they wouldn't let you pour water over your head because they were running low. The Volunteers were very nice, but the race was not very well prepared. Their marketing said the race is gaining momentum and better numbers every year, but this year was about 50 less athletes than 2011.

Hydrate better on the bike. Not register for this race again.