race

Once again, another pleasant surprise. I came from behind to catch first place at the 2.5 mile mark on the run to capture my age-group. As I waited on the beach for the start, I took a moment to dedicate the race to my mom and Jill. Heading out to the first buoy, I was swimming straight into the sun and I couldn't see a thing. I lined myself up with the buoy out on the beach so I just tried to hold a straight line. It worked because I hit the first buoy dead-on. What luck! I rarely have good luck in the swim so I knew this race might be promising. I felt strong and in control the entire swim and came out of the water first for my wave. I think the hardest part of the race was the bike. Simply put, the course was crazy. It was on a tiny bike path and not only were there rolling hills but you were constantly cornering around sharp turns. My heartrate was constantly spiking during the short climbs and I could never get into a rhythm. Normally, I fare pretty well on a course like this but the the numerous sharp turns really threw me off. The course benefitted the fearless with fast times and unfortunately, I am not fearless. I was constantly out of my aerobars, and constantly braking not only for turns but for the numerous age-groupers on the crowded course. I also made a wrong turn during the second loop which allowed the second place guy (Sean Perkins) to pass me. I was just lost out there on the bike course so I was so happy to get off the bike. Starting the run, I had really fresh legs, probably as a result of my slow, fear-induced ride. I knew I was second in my age-group and had no idea where first place was. I kept the run at threshold and never really redlined it. I saw first place at the turn around just after two miles and I regrouped myself for a strong pass. As I went by, I thought it was pretty cool that he gave me some props. After the pass, I let up somewhat when I knew he didn't react. I ran hard but not craaaaazy hard. No cramping, no pessimistic thoughts, and no shakes so my nutrition was right on. Post race, I had a nice 4-mile warm down with Gregg Trent, a fellow triathlete I've known since I was 20. It was fun to catch up with him and he's looking pretty fit this year. I also got a chance to catch up with Jerry Lee, a triathlete I used to coach when he was racing in the junior ranks. I think I need some more quality sessions on the bike but all else looks pretty good.
*Pictures from Jeff Pratt Photography