Subject: RE: Santa Barbara Sprint This was my first triathlon last year (well, first in 3 years....my very first had a pool swim in CO and I was woefully under trained), so it was my first ocean swim in a race. I didn't think the waves were too bad, really. Compared to Solana Beach, they are pretty moderate. The water was a bit chilly, but ended up being warmer than Pacific Coast a few weeks later. I do remember the bike hill, and at the time, it was pretty tough for me....but it's pretty short, and you can gut it out quickly and get it over with. Will be interesting to see how it rides this year, though, as I definitely have some bike legs now! The bike course is fast, but there is a train....last year I lost the lead pack because I had to sit at a train crossing for over a minute. You will enjoy it-- don't think there's anything to be worried about at all. It left a very positive impression on me last year and I think it was my favorite race venue to date....and I've now been to 11 or 12! |