Swim was a little murky, but the water temp was fine. Based on time, I think the course may have been a little long. No worries.

Nothing, really

Three of us were racing together so Randy and I waited for Sue to get out of the water and helped her gear up.

If I were racing for time, I wouldn't wait for my buddies.

About mile 20 is a river crossing. Descend from a field to the river (challenging descent), dismount and carry bike across the river. Steep ascent up from the river similar to the descent.

About mile 25 Randy's rear hub decided to fail, so we sent him to the next aid station which had a bike mechanic.

About mile 26 I got split up from Sue and spent the next 1:20 trying to reconnect with her. Thankfully we got back together.

Once connected, we rode to the next aid station where Randy had worked with the bike mechanic to cannibalize one of his bikes and fix his rear hub.

Continued on to T2. Some challenging descent and ascents on the gravel plus some pavement.

If you plan to ride as a group, have a plan in the event you get split up.

The creek run was fun and not so fun. Water felt cool. Shoes got full of sand and gravel. Once we left the creek it was impossible to get the sand out of our shoes/socks. Last mile or so was spent boulder hopping in the dark.

Bring a bigger headlamp and figure out a way to get dry socks and shoes to that last aid station.

This is a really cool, laid back, challenging race. I think there were appx 40 competitors in the Full and Half distances, including relay participants.