First race report

[Bluetree]

You know, after having done it, I understand why the swim comes first.

When I do a swim workout, I get into my zen mode and my strokes beocme very automatic. My breathing relaxes and my heart rate is barely registering above normal. If I do anything less than a mile, I actually come out of the pool feeling warmed up, rather than worked out.

With the swim leg last, not only was I going on a serious calorie deficit, but my heart rate and adrenaline levels were way up. I think I panicked a bit because I was so surprised at my lack of strength, the non-responsiveness of my limbs, and that made the swim even worse.

Plus, I think I took that final leg for granted. Shame on me!

[btchance]

Great race, especially on the bike. I completely understand about having the swim last and the problems it causes. The one tri I did like that, I had major back cramps for the first 50m, and took another 50 to find my stroke. But hey, live and learn. When's the next?

[tygab]

awesome report Bluetree! You sound like you had a great time, and after all isn't that the most important thing? I am impressed with your time too, sounds pretty good to me for a first timer. I would be elated to have a time near that when I finally give it a go.

Oh, and BTW you do not look 39!

[Bluetree]

One more thing I forgot to mention...

When fighting the winds of the outbound ride, I think I had a terrible grimace on my face. I know I was growling or going," Gaaahhhhhrrr!" at one point. The race leaders started passing by in the other direction, already past the turnaround. One guy gave me a huge sh*t eating grin and yelled, "DAY-WEH!!!"

Dayweh?! What the heck does Dayweh mean? Jerk, I thought.

After I reached the turnaround and escaped the headwind, I suddenly realized why that elite rider was grinning so much.
He was yelling, "TAILWIND!" At that point, I felt like grinning, too.

[mtbdarby]

Love the report Bluetree. CONGRATS! Awesome job and write-up. How long have you had a coach? Love the 'do too - it very much suits you and is adorable.

[HappyAnika]

Congratulations!!!

I loved your report. Way to go on pacing the run. And way to go on the bike! That's awesome that so many people in the race were cheering you on. I agree, your hair is very cute, and I can't believe how good it looks after doing a triathlon. I look like crap after doing and sort of exercise.