I don't think I've ever been kicked or elbowed so much in a race. Will avoid the main pack next time, although that's a challenge in a mass start. Felt pretty good in the swim, maybe went too fast, mostly breathing every stroke. Didn't feel really settled until the last 300m.

Briefly rinsed with fresh water and took off wetsuit in the mass shower area that you run through from the ocean to the bikes. Glasses were knocked off of helmet/bike, so looked around on the ground a few seconds, hoping they weren't stepped on. No problem, they were fine.

My HR was quite high for the first 10 minutes, probably because of going too fast in the swim and excitement. Was very conscious of going slow until the HR was in the 150s. Maintained HR in 150-160s for most of the race. First lap went very well, but last 1/2 of 2nd lap some cramps began to develop - quads and hamstrings. Slowed my pace a bit and road through them.

Probably slow my pace when I could feel the muscles working a bit too hard. It's a challenge to balance the pace vs. push dynamic. Also, had 1-2 bottles of race sports drink, this didn't sit well with my stomach. Should have brought Gu tabs with me and added them to the water.

Sprayed some more sunscreen, but didn't use enough on the shoulders. Put on visor, added a Gu to the jersey, changed shoes and was off.

Was worried at the start of the run about the cramps on the bike, but these weren't a problem at first. I knew I needed to pace myself, did the first 5k in 33 minutes. But it was a struggle from here. Next 8k was about 1/2 run 1/2 walk, then following 5k was almost all walk, thankfully was able to scoot/jog last 2K. The cramps were pretty bad in the calves, ankles and shins. Tried to run more, but they would seize up - was concerned if I kept running, that I wouldn't be able to finish. So mostly walked at that point.

Ate 1 1/2 bananas during first 4k, this helped with cramps and stomach. However, I think I had too much water, felt bloated/nasuous several times during the run.

beer, potato chips, banana, water


A great location, very scenic, awesome volunteers who cheered a lot, aid stations were great - both on bike and run.