I've attended a few OWS practices. The first was very helpful. It was a very introductory OWS, geared towards the beginner triathlete. We did a few smaller swims and the first one felt shaky for me again, I had to tread a few times, but the second one was much better. By the third time i'd totally figured a way to breathe and site while keeping a good rhythm. I did the 1/2 mile swim and felt great and did the whole thing wtihout stopping once. Then did the same thing over, so I was really happy.

Went to another OWS and went right in and felt good in the water, though my stamina felt a bit off from not taking my pool swims recently since they stopped the Masters. Well, at least I figured out my siting/breathing, and I think next time for a tri I've figured that if possible a bit of an in-water warmup really helps me feel calmer come start time.

Good job on your accomplishments, silver! Isn't it nice to see improvement??