Posted by DH
First transition (T1) at Martin Street, Penticton. 8:05 A.M. PST

What a spectacle when the cannon fired! Waves of athletes plunging forward, turbulence and windmill arms out front. The jostling continues for several hundred meters, then I can see some snake-like lines as some athletes find a draft to their liking. The energy and speed is astonishing.

They fade beyond detail. I want to get a latte, but movement through the spectactors is slow. So many have the same idea: Head for the transition area to see how their athlete looks coming in. I know when to expect Wahine. 65 min or so after the cannon.

There she is!-- in dripping glory. Focussed on process. Keep the feet moving, off with the goggles, pop the cap (Pink!), peel down to waist, orient, yield to the wetsuit strippers, breathe deeply…

I move to the fence near her bike. Request to the crowd: Excuse me please, smiles and yes, we understand, there’s room.

Wahine is already at her bike. “Race smart!” I yell. I’m worried because she pushes through pain.

Clack clack—out to Main street, spinning, HUGE SMILE. Looking so strong after T1. Clouds are clearing. Blue sky poking thru everywhere. Now, I’m optimistic.