Vineman - Triathlon1/2 Ironman

Felt the current in my arms about 500 or so into the swim..it wasn't noticeable except for the early fatigue attributed to the current. After the turn the stroke felt effortless. Very comfortable swim.

Swim in the middle of the river to take better advantage of the current. I was too close to the shore on the return which negated the use of the current.

T1 had a big hill at the base so after a few conversations with a couple of Vineman vets around T1 I opted to run the bike up the hill prior to performing the flying mount.

Nothing at this point since it was my first HIM. T1 time wasn't too big of a concern.

Felt strong after the swim for the first 5 Miles (flat) was hitting 20 with relative ease. Turned into the first hill and noticed my speed slipped a bit to 6mph. Rolling hills with some steeper than expected. Saw a fire engine with a crane holding a huge tree above the route which evidently fell earlier in the day. Heard there was one serious injury and a few broken collarbones. At mile 20 it turned relatively flat and I enjoyed the scenery as often as I could remember to look around. I wanted to maintain a low effort and save myself for the run but found myself racing the course instead. The whole course was ascending until mile 45 even when it seemed flat. As Chalk Hill approached I was back and fourth with a good group. I found myself pretty comfortable ascending the hills and thought Chalk Hill wasn't that bad until the guy next to me said we "haven't hit it yet". Well when I drove the hill I really didn't see it but believe me it's there. I went across the bridge and started up at a 10 mph pace which slowed to 6 or 7 then the false flat. At that point the road turned and then there was the Chalk Hill. I stood up and felt comfortable with a higher cadence and gaining some speed. It seemed like forever but I was passing people. I hit the top and it felt like Loving hill the first time you try it after a long winter off. I made it but it took its toll on my legs. The descent was fast, technical and fun.

A few longer rides, probably should have tackled Muenster one more time.

Tried to hydrate on the bike since I noticed I was sweating around mile 30 which I hadn't planned on. The Dallas heat was going to make this easy since it was suppose in the 80s. It hit 95 since there wasn't a marine layer that morning. I had to use the facilities since I drank so much on the bike (which I rarely do) which I thought was a good sign.

Salt tablets? better shape? Overall, I was happy with my bike fitness for my first. I underestimated the "Rolling Hills" at the beginning.

Not enough fluids I guess. There was really no shade on the course and I shouldn't have worn my flats. My feet were burning on the run since the concrete was so hot..even with the socks. I did see a Bobcat/mountain lion of somesort cross the road at mile 8. Pretty scary thinking back on it since it was as large as a german shepard. Not sure if there would've been anything I could do if it stopped since I wasn't about/able to run anywhere.

Finished and turned in my bike to tribike transport, hung out with the group for a bit then jumped on the school bus to drive 18 miles back to the start to get the car...just what the legs needed...a cramped bus seat for 45 min.


Running endurance. Hill training.


Fantastic course. Scenic views and tons of great staff. Plenty of aid stations and would highly advise everyone to sign up next year.