Had trouble breathing first half of swim, couldn't settle into breathing rythym. Started well at back of my wave so nobody kicking me etc. Water on my face was too cold and i couldn't control breathing. Had trouble sighting because was breathing on left side but looking right into the sun. Swallowed water at least three times. Probably around 750 meters finally settled into breathing and swimming rythym that felt normal. Once i made the final turn to the finish started having trouble breathing again. Right calf started to spasm and cramp. Thank God for wetsuits. Right calf cramped putting shoes on at exit ramp so had to kneel there for a minute until cramp passed.

Work on breathing on both left and right side, which hopefully will make sighting easier. Do a few open water swims etc. Need more distance.

Arms tired from swim so had trouble getting wetsuit off my ankles and calves.

Eat a gel.

Didn't like the number of riders since it made passing difficult because i had to watch out for the FAST boys and girls. Took two laps before i felt like i was riding at a normal pace of around 18. My neck was also stiff and I had trouble getting and staying in an aero position and I suppose this was because of the swim.

Drink and eat more gels.

Good transition.

Dump excess bike tube and patch kit before the run.

Right calf started cramping up again.

Have more gels for run.

Stretched a little.


Not enough liquid and gels.


Took a couple of hours to get past the race numbness. Overall it was a good experience.