Thanks for the kind words, Trekhawk. I just registered for a tri on 9/18 so I'll let you know how it goes.

KSH, we really do have similar experiences! I checked out your post and pics on your first tri back in June I kept thinking "me too!" Congrats on doing so well in the event. I'm 38 and swam on a team in the summers (and some winters) until I was around 15 back in NY where I grew up.

I did a little research on the side cramps and getting them on your right side is pretty common. It seems to be related to the liver getting all jostled around when you run and the positioning of the diaphragm. One of the things that's recommended is breathing out when your left foot hits the ground and really concentrating on controlling your breathing. Easier said than done, although last night when I went running I got a cramp almost immediately and just kept focusing on deep breaths and it went away after a few miles.

I'm totally going to stay as far to the outside as possible on my next tri. I ordered a wetsuit off of TE today so I hope to be able to go to the lake and practice a few times before the event. Went to the gym today and swam a mile but as you know it's just so much different in a pool.

Good for you for setting an Olympic distance as a goal. It sounds like you'll do great!