Newbie: If I only had a brain...

Hello everyone. I have only made a cursory scan through this site, but it seems to pretty comprehensive...and...forgiving to the newcomer to the sport.

Let me just give you a few details about myself. I am male, 205lbs and 5'11". I used to compete competitively at the UIL and NCAA level in swimming. Part of our workouts usually involved cycling (which I enjoyed), strength training(which I endured), and running (which I despised).

Now fast forward 20 years. It was time to lose some weight as my boys(7 & 4) were becoming active in sports, so last year I made it my goal to lose 25lbs(then 230lbs) which I successfully did through smart eating and mild exercise(until the holidays ). I am an avid golfer and walk often. While my feet and knees usually moan and groan afterward, they always keep me upright. As part of my resolution last year, I climbed Long's Peak(at least to the Keyhole, shy of 14,000ft) in Estes Park, CO as I have a dreadful fear of heights. Keep in mind that I have never been hiking before. While I probably wasn't in the best shape, I had little *real* difficulty negotiating the altitude.

This year I will turn 40. I would really like to tackle a duathalon, triathalon or even a half ironman contest. My goal is to finish. I am not concerned about placement, but I do not want to limp across the finish line either.

I have not been running, biking or swimming. Now I am sure everyone at this point is groaning that this guy is out of his mind. However, I am determined and disciplined. I will be making www.beginnertriathlete.com one of my regular internet stops from now on. Any words of wisdom and/or encouragement are more than welcome.

Happy New Year.