Did alright on the swim. I warmed up and was ready to go when our Wave stepped up. I found out quickly what the day should bring. I swam in the first 200 y had to fix my goggles twice. Water was creeping in. By the time I had it fixed, the Elite group was gone. I swam by myself most of the way. I had a few opportunities to draft, but not many. When I finally hit the half way point, I just wanted to get out of the water.

Turned the buoy well and started back. Some faster swimmers were catching me so i drafted when I could. But I was very off for overall sighting. I was pulling too far left. It was along the buoys, but i needed to be more right to get in quicker.

Actually this may have been my strongest aspect today. i got in and out quick, even with putting on shoes. I did drop early in the transition to take off my wetsuit and had some cramps, but got through it well

Here is where I usually excell. I Took off strong, but did not feel it in the beginning. I was going out well and was averaging closer to 22 on the way out, but the wind slowed me down on the way back. Mental fart on this, I should have pushed a bit harder going out to have a higher pace to start, then kept it steady coming back

BUT

I did not train anything for power or speed to start the year, and we had a late start on outdoor riding. This ride was a MAJOR SHOCK to my system. It affected my run and body for the week.

Fairly good. Got in, GOt Off, Got Out

One of my slower runs on this course. Maybe it is age, maybe it is training. Maybe - No Excuses.

I was not ready for today completely. I can cover the ground, but not the speed. I ran out on the course and in the first half mile I saw the family and jeanne asked how I was doing. "In Pain" 6 miles to go!

Not a great place to start, but DTFU and keep going forward. i walked more often on this course than before. I struggled in so many areas, but was able to keep cramping at bay.

Th goal was to break 3 hours and that pushed me as well as staying ahead of my friend Mike. Well, He like many others, caught and passed me. There was less than 2 miles to go.

Alright - Goal 2 - Sub 3 hours. This drove me, besides a beer and food, to finish faster. I thought I was going to be just under. I watched my Garmin and thought I would hit the line about 2:57 if I could keep it up.

TO my surprise - 2h53m! Goal achieved.

Walk around, get quick food and talk a little. I packed up fast and went back to shower so I could drive boys to soccer for their games that afternoon.


Lack of Speed Training

GOAL 2014 - Speed!


I always enjoy this event. It is truly a challenege every time - even though I know the course VERY well. I will be back.