Start goes (that minute warning is always too early) and I have room to move. Very little interference from other competitors and when I do, I can simply drop the hammer and get by them. This is really easy for me. Rest the legs with simple flutters to keep them buoyant.

Make the course three times longer!

I have struggled with T1 in my previous 4 tris. This was easiest by far. I tried to simplify. Albuterol before the swim, no clif shot here, water bottle to clean the feet instead of bucket. Step on the towel to dry. Socks on, fumbled ever so slightly with the shoe velcro. Glasses, helmet and I'm good. For me; excellent T1

Single strap rather than double strap shoes?

This is my true strength. I went full on gas here. I know I could have "saved" some for the run, but in fact, those minutes wouldn't come back on the run. A true hammerfest and I could race/pace with a woman I warmed up with making us both push hard. She and I kept alternating; I "Boonen'ed" her and out-sprinted her at the finish. 2 car issues who don't know how to pass a cyclist and I have to pass the cars. I was truly happy with the ride and think I was second bike in the racks; tough to be sure when you're anoxic.

Nothing. I rock!

Never sure to stand or sit here; I tried to stand but realized I was struggling. Sat down and it went easier. I got "easy laces" with the circle puller thingy on them. I like the speed laces with the spring clip better, but the screws for the eyelets rub my feet.

Maybe speed laces and moleskin over the screw heads to keep it from rubbing.

OK, not terrible in retrospect. I didn't feel good. I was hurting the whole time (Did I mention smoking the bike?). But I know; this is my worst segment and I need to "cowboy up" and "git er done" here. Two pass in the first 500 yards, then another at the water stop 1. Then another on the cul-de-sac. I see my closest clyde competitor enter the cul-de-sac as I'm exiting and wonder if I have enough gap knowing he's a better runner than me. Step it up even though we're dangerously low on gas. I enter the neighborhood portion and know I have to keep the gas on even though there's no one around. A couple more go by; teams who won't hurt my overall and women who will. The down hill favors me; A spectator friend tells me John just rounded the corner and I know if I keep it on, I've got him. Finish an I realize I've done well.

Keep training. Want to get my 5K only times into a tri, but I know that's real work (I'm willing to put that in). 8:30 miles are very different than 7:30.

Collapse and wait for the blood flow to return to my brain with my head between my knees. Ooh, pretty colors!


Run, but I'm working.


Wish it were open to the public or at least our contractors and temps to enhance the field.