I took it pretty easy to start, figuring I could pick up the pace on the 2nd lap. I felt great the entire time, even though the girl in the blue cap ahead of me kicked me square in the jaw (it didn't hurt too bad and I didn't lose any teeth). I tried to keep Mike in sight, but took off after the 1st lap in hopes of catching some of the other swimmers...but we ended up finishing at the exact same time! I sprinted the last 200+ meters and was trying to pull ahead of a guy next to me...and had no idea it was him!

I would push it much harder the entire race. I took it WAY too easy on the first lap, didn't hustle to get in the water at the group start and didn't hustle in and out of the water at the turn. I was looking at this race more as a training day and a fun event, but I still could have worked much harder.

On the other hand, I was pretty surprised and pleased to see that I paced under 2:00/100 meters.

We had about 30 minutes before the Aquathlon was to start, so I changed clothes and stretched the legs.


There were some FAST swimmers out there! I felt great, but still could have pushed much harder than I did.


This was a fun little race and a great venue. I had a blast and can't wait to do it again next year. I can't think of a better way to start your Independence Day celebration.