Not the best swim, but compared to last year, it was awesome. Last year, my wave left me behind, I was alone, and then the next wave swam around me, chewed me up and spit me out. I stayed with my wave this year and passed a few people in wetsuits! I got stuck behind three guys swimming side by side in wetsuits. Two of them flipped onto their back and kicked, which only splashed water in my face every time I went to sight. I didn't have the speed or confidence to pass, so I stayed stuck behind them. Ugh!

Apparently I'm not so bad that I can't swim closer to the buoys. I rounded the end buoy close and really well, but the rest of the time I was way wide, playing it safe. I spent a lot more time this year swimming with people close to me, I should have been more aggressive and passed on the inside. It's okay though, I still had a fun swim! The second half of the swim I really found my rhythm.

Ran up the chute, through T1, easily found my bike and stuff. I was determined to not hit my head on the racks this year. Success! No hitting myself in the head!

Nothing.

Held back and was a little conservative on the ride. Bit of clumping up going uphill and I was hesitant to pass given there was traffic going 60 mph and I didn't want to get hit. Constantly reminded myself to keep my cadence high and not overdo myself on the bike.

In the name of safety, I'm glad I didn't pass. I'm still not a very strong cyclist and I would have had to work a bit harder than I would like to pass quickly and safely. That might have tired out my legs and burnt me out for the run, which I also knew to be hilly.

I've been babying these shoes because I really like them, and that means I no longer shove my feet into pre-tied shoes. That meant taking time to tie my shoelaces. BOO!

I should give those fancy no-tie elastic laces a try.

Definitely got the HR going on the run! I pushed the pace, but I didn't go all out. Felt a little out of control at times on the downhills so I had to work to slow it down. Not the best run I've ever had, but given the terrain, I feel quite good about my time!

Be less conservative, especially in the last mile. Come on, it's only 5k! One day, I want to do a sprint and just totally give 'er!

Walked back to the viewing area and stretched and drank water while cheering on the rest of the triathletes. Then I ate PIZZA, a COOKIE and a bunch of strawberries and blueberries.


I totally forgot to have caffeine! This is the first race I've ever done without having coffee in the morning. I'm not a regular drinker, so it gives me a boost, but not being a regular, I didn't have the routine. Totally forgot!

I'd like to keep working on my bike fitness. I was surprised at how well I kept up with people/passed people on the hilly course, but I still want to do better. More time in the saddle!


Given the last minute change, the race was delayed 15 minutes because people had to find their way to the new location. No biggie. The food was AMAZING and plentiful. I stayed to watch the last racer come in - a 76 yo doing his first tri. Also watched the awards take place, and it was nice to see a good number of people stayed around to watch.

A great local race, and a wonderful race director who cheered my name every time she saw me. I admire her efforts and the work of all the volunteers to make this race happen despite the flooding at the original race location.

My only complaint is the same as last year - I wish they'd restrict the transition area to athletes only. Lots of spectators were in the way of the athletes. Otherwise, a fantastic race!