Thanks for the tips! I've been for a few ocean swims over the past months and am pretty confident, if slow, in open water. Actually, my first training swim was my first ever ocean swim and I thought it was the most disgusting experience of my life. I'm from inland originally, had only ever swim in fresh water before.

Have also been practicing my "transitions" between the swim and the bike, and I can't jump on the bike while running to save my life. For the ten seconds it will save, I'd rather pull over and climb on safely.

I bought elastic laces for my sneakers and they helped a lot. Only two days away now - I'm actually quite excited.