To race or not to race?

[tribogota]

Every year I do the olympic distance triathlon in San Andres, it is a good race! and this year it falls one week before Escape from Alcatraz. I am seriously considering doing it, these are my reasons.
1. get into race mode
2. practice transitions
3. swim open water one week before race
4. practice running 1 mile on sand, just to get the idea.

The cons? will I be that tired? it is 7 days before, and I won't be on taper yet until Monday, so in theory I can do the race and start taper on Monday, which would be basically rest all week, maybe swim 20 mins each day and run 20 mins each day.

ADVICE? I am confused and need some feedback. My coach says yes. I don't know if he is really listening though, he is distracted.

[HillSlugger]

If your goal are NOT to go at it whole hog, A race, but rather to use it as training for Alcatraz then I think you'll be fine. A week should be enough time in between for recovery. Of course, you know your body best.

[rocknrollgirl]

I would vote no. I have a really, REALLY hard time not going all out in a race. If you can hold something back in reserve, and do it to work out the kinks, then go for it, otherwise, save your race mode for your A race.

[colby]

I would vote no. I have a really, REALLY hard time not going all out in a race. If you can hold something back in reserve, and do it to work out the kinks, then go for it, otherwise, save your race mode for your A race.

^ This ^

She speaks the truth. No more needs to be said.

[bikermaze]

If you really want to join this race, go ahead, but bear in mind you'll have to save up some reserve strength and good condition prior to Escape from Alcatraz, if you can guarantee to yourself on realistic terms that you can finish this race and still manage to be in good shape for the next one, then I don't see why.

Though I prefer you prepare just for one race and stick to that. But you know, in case you might end up regreting on missing out this race... Ask yourself.

If the San Andres race is not one to miss, go for it. Though I personally don't mind missing out events given there's a guaranteed next year, compared to one that's got bigger stakes or a one time opportunity for that matter.

[tribogota]

all good advice,
decided to do the SPRINT on Friday, which still gives 10 days to Escape and
do the swim of the olympic on Sunday and transition, 5k on bike, transition, 1k run, just to practice the transitions.
I am actually good at not going all out! I get distracted by the fish and corral and forget I am NOT snorkeling, I also get distracted by the views.
BUT indeed, I have worked really hard for Alcatraz, so I want to be at my best.
The sprint and the oly swim will be great last trainings before taper.