Revisiting AquaBike (or a tri as a relay)

[Tri Girl]

I think that's PLENTY of time. It's all about working hard and how much you want it.
Big race, little race, whatever. I don't think you should limit yourself in any way. If you do a big race for your first one, then just start at the back of your wave and you won't have to worry about getting beat-down as much in the swim.
I think your only limitations are what you impose upon yourself. I don't believe you have to be a triathlete for a certain number of years before you tackle the big distances or big races (unlike some of the athletes I train and race with).

In 2006 (my first year of doing tris) I went from doing a sprint in mid May (my first tri ever) to doing a 140.6 (IM) in late September. Anything is doable if you have it in mind that you're going to do it!

Go for it! Start training now and you'll be just fine!!