Cindy loo, just be sure to really tell yourself "it's ok I CAN do this, calm down...." when you get in that OW for the first time.
I used to SURF when I was young and I never thought I would have an issue with OW. But for some reason- maybe it's the pre race jitters- I get really anxious when I first get in the water.
So now I have to do a little mental thing where I talk to myself and tell myself to settle down. It's ok. I will be ok... and that seems to work.

have fun out there! I wish I had a wednesday evening tri I could do! it sounds fun!!