Congrats to wanting to do a tri There will be ALL types there and I think people are more supportive than judgmental. If anything, the "atypical" athlete shows other people that maybe they could do the same thing, if they wanted.

There have been some great clothing suggestions here. I have a couple of two piece tri outfits (shorts and top) and a few one piece tri suits. I don't like things riding up (I'm tall and a lot of tops don't go down far enough) so in some ways, I like the one piece better. They don't, however, leave a lot to the imagination. Another downside to the one piece is they are more work if you have to use the restroom. A wetsuit will go right over a tri suit, no problem.

The tri is in 5 weeks, do you have time to test out a wetsuit? I'd wear one, brrrr. Mission Bay is a nice area, are they setting up the transition area in that park?

Nobody can help you in transition BUT people can stand outside the area and talk to you if your bike is racked close enough to the fence.

(One thing that was suggested to me was to have a bucket. You can carry stuff in it to and from transition AND flip it upside down to sit on it to change your shoes. I love my bucket.)

You can definitely finish! You'll feel it but that's a good thing. Take it slow, relax during transition, and enjoy yourself. Imagine the accomplishment you will feel when it's done!

Also, RRS in San Diego is absolutely wonderful. If you're looking for running shoes, I can definitely recommend them.

Um, I guess the only other thing I can say is to test everything out before race day. Make sure your shorts feel comfy and don't bunch or hurt, that your goggles and wetsuit work well for you, and that your bike is in good working condition.

HAVE FUN! I also talk to the volunteers and the police and anyone else who will listen. It breaks up the day, makes me feel less tired, and interjects humor into a situation that would sometimes be painful. You'd be amazed how many people come out just to cheer the athletes on and they are a huge help if you're tired.

You'll see. There are "magazine athletes" and the elite ones but the majority of people you'll see and meet will be just like you.