Vineman Ironman 70.3 - Triathlon1/2 Ironman

This was my best swim ever. It was a typical start with the arms and elbows flying around and people running into each other. I started in the front on the far right hand side (away from the buoys). I started off strong and was able to maintain a solid pace throughout the entire swim. I drafted a little bit when I had the opportunity. I was trying to avoid going too hard like at Alcatraz as I didn't want to start the day already spent. I got out of the water towards the front of the pack and headed to T1.





Dry my feet off a little better - or at least get all the dirt off.

My stupid wetsuit has been getting stuck on my elbows for some reason - even with body glide and tri glide spray. My T1 area became a muddy mess. The ground was dirt and cleaning my feet with water only made the surrounding place muddier. It was so much fun stuffing a mud covered wetsuit and towel in to the T1 bag to be transported back to the finish. It was nice that they had carpet over the dirt and gravel out of and into T1.



figure out the best way to get the arms off easier as they get stuck on my elbows.

Since I do not have my try bike yet, i was passed by many people on the bike. I started towards the front out of T1, but could not keep up with the aero folks. I averaged 17.5 with the rollers which isn't bad I guess, but definitly need to work on the bike and strength training. I hope my new Cervelo P2C gives me a little boost as well! My feet were basically numb the whole way as it never really warmed up during the bike.

strength train more. Also, my ass was killing me from the bike - I need to get some more long rides in without breaks.

It seemed like a long run from the dismount point to the bike rack. My legs were jello and I sat down to put my shoes and socks on.

My feet were still numb from the bike which was expected, but I made the decision at T1 to wear my Newton running shoes. The longest run in these shoes was 6 miles and I knew I was taking a chance in wearing them ... I started off slow as it took a good 15 minutes to get my legs under me. I was averaging about 8:25 for most of the race however on the way back had to stop several times to adjust shoes. My feet ended up killing me from about mile 6 - a burning sharp pain under the ball of my foot - on both feet mind you. I was happy with my time as the half mary I did in January was 1:47:26 - I wasn't too far off considering a bike and a swim prior.

Not wear shoes that are too new ... classic mistake.

walking around and a little stretching


The bike split is way below where I need to be for my AG.


I was very happy with my first race at this distance. My nutrition was spot on for this race - thank God finally. I got a few minor cramps, but they subsided for the most part. It was a very well run race and the volunteers were awesome. I would recommend this race to anyone.