This is the most I have been jumbled around in a race, even Ironman 70.3! The first half of the swim, there was no clear water. I got pushed, scratched quite a bit, but managed to hold onto my goggles. The second half was better, but I was never able to get a nice normal easy stroke going.

Start further up in the pack to avoid the slowest of swimmers blocking the way.

I took my time here, as this was the first time I was using the GPS and data recorder during a race.

Prethink transitions before race day.

Quartering head winds at 10-12mph for the first half. This is usually my stronger event, but I have not prepared much for it over the last several weeks. I went out at a comfortable pace and really enjoyed the scenery. Iowa, with its rolling hills and spacious views is just incredible after a storm.

I could have pushed the pace to 19.5, but I was afraid the run (my weakest part) would be unbearable if I did.

I had to sit down on the grass and pee! Wpw, much better! I tried changing socks complettely from the bike to the swim as to avaoid blisterrs. This really worked well. I had another gel, and placed two more in my pockets for miles 2 and 4. Then I was off.

Remember to take off my helmet and put on my hat!

I went out easy beacuse I waas afraid of burning out by the end of the race. I ran/walked for a half mile with an older lady from my swim club and talked. This lost some time. The hills were not as bad as I feared.

I have focused more on running the last 6 weeks, and my energy level shows it. Last year I was running 10-11 minute miles. In retrospect, I could have pushed it a bit more, and finished 6 minutes sooner, but I felt great, and enjoyed every minnute of it.

Walked, drank water, collected my things.


My fear of buring out like 70.3 Florida.


This was a great race for a tiny town in Iowa. I will definitely return!