my team had a practice tri on Monday and I didn't do well in the swim. I haven't been in open water since my tri last August. I had practiced in open water and had done "ok." but I didn't do well in the actual tri.

i kind of freak out in the open water. I hyperventilate, and feel like I can't catch my breath. I think it's just a nerves thing. I don't really feel in fear of drowning, just really short of breath. in the pool I feel this a little but I push through and things smooth out for me.

On Monday I started with the rest of the folks, but turned back about a quarter of the way out and returned to shore.

I saw a device in the back of the triathlon mag. It's called swimsafe. It's like a little fanny pack that's like an emergency life preserver. I ordered one and hope that it helps me get over this mental block.

any suggestions?