I had a good swim. Both practice swims of the IM distance were right around 1:05. I knew if I could swim straight I should be under 1:10 and was pleasantly surprised to see the time.

I'm not sure how to speed up T1. I think part of it is the course layout, but I always seem to be slow here.

I really took it slow and steady for the first 90 minutes. I drank every fifteen minutes, as I knew hydration would be the key to a good race for me. I had ridden the course in 5:39 during training, and told myself to try to ride a 5:40. I tried to consume two bottles an hour and the goal was to pee 3 times on the back. I ended up going 5 times, which cost me 7 minutes, but well worth it in the end. I went steady for the 3.5 hours and took it easy again at the end. I was getting passed liked crazy on the way in, but knew I would be seeing most of them again very soon. Without the pit stops it would have been a 5:35 split. I felt ready to run well.

Fairly good T2. Changed quickly and was out of the tent. One final pit spot at the port-o-potty and I was onto the run course.

I felt very good for the first half of the run. Strong and smooth with good form. I ran every aid station but still managed to get in the liquids and a gel every 30 to 40 minutes. The pain crept in around mile 19 and from then to 23 it was a struggle to stay on pace. I walked each aid station after 18 but ran well in between and managed to keep all splits under 9 and mostly around 8.5. I saw mile 24 and knew I was home. I ran past the last aid station without stopping and made my way to the finish. I slowed down once I hit the chute and found the family cheering alongside. I gave hi-fives to all and made sure to take it all in this time. It felt awesome to cross the line for a second time...and with a 1:37 minute PR!!!! Incredible race for me.

Not a thing.

Stopped to chat with friends and family and made sure to take in the liquids. What a difference between 2010 and now. No IV's and I felt really good. Still couldn't stomach the pizza though. We drove home for a shower and then made it back to the line by 10:30 to cheer on the remaining participants and watch the last guy cross. What a day.