I avoided the normal sprint start but I still went faster than I planned. I watched the group run away from me but I knew I'd make up ground the rest of the race with my bike and then with everyone that blows up on the run.

Not my best transition. My bike shoes' velcro stuck to my transition bag so that cost me a few seconds. other than that, a great transition.

Bike course was really crowded, especially with the short course racers. There was a lot of drafting going on. I had trouble passing people because of so much drafting and riding 3 wide. The fest half lap was ridiculous, but then the race moto came up and would sit on the back of a pack and things would clear out. I ended up hopping groups with the moto as it would clear the group and allow me to pass. I was a bit below my goal power, but I still did alright time wise. I think it was because I had so much sitting up there at the beginning. Once I got our of the pack I was able to settle into my rhythm.

Run went well. had a bit of cramping at the start, but I took a bottle with me and drank a bunch on the first half so that alleviated quickly. I was able to finish strong and was rite on ace with this run so I was happy with it!

Just sat down and took it all in... drank a lot!


Drinking enough on the bike. I need to make up for the first run and keep even on the bike so I can survive the second run.


Overall this is a good race. It is well organized from a course and racer standpoint, but horrible for spectators. Traffic is a problem and there are not many good places for photos. There also wasn't an official race photographer which is stupid since FS is one of the biggest organizers in the region and this was a national championship race. Every race I've done with FS has been executed well, but interacting with organizers before and after always leaves a bad taste in my mouth.