I finished my first sprint tri of the season!!!

carolinagirl7

This is my second sprint tri and the first of the season. This was my first race on this course. Couldn't ask for better weather...Sunny and in the 60's at the start of the day. The race was challenging to say the least, but I managed to finish. This was a shorter sprint tri (250y/8/2) but don't let that fool you...The pool was 73 degrees. As soon as I jumped in my muscles all froze up and I couldn't catch my breath. I was glad I was prepared for the sensation, but had to resort to single breath stroke. On a the bright side...everyone was moving as slow as I was. T1 was a breeze...Now onto the bike. I had not actually rode the course, but drove it. It was hilly with lots of sharp turns. Every time I would get some momentum going, I would have to turn, it felt like the entire 8 miles was uphill...about mile 6 I slipped my chain by shifting up too quickly. I got it back on with the help of a volunteer, but then mile 7, the steepest hill of the race. I had to jump off the bike and walk. It is equal to a hill I train on, and still can't make it up at the end of a ride, kinda of bummed I couldn't tough it out to exceed training... Finally back for T2...I was just so glad to be back...I ran right past my racking area. I remember even thinking when I set up I would have to look sharp because my rack was right next to the bike entry... On to the run or in my case the walk (still banned from running though I did sneak some run time in). It went well and I FINISHED! My time 1:43:32. I was initially disappointed with the outcome, but looking at the factors I managed to overcome to finish the race, it makes me a stronger person and athlete. Watch out Rambling Rose Raleigh 2013...here I come

Lessons learned
Bike mechanics...I must become more proficient
Keep working those hills in training...I will only become stronger
The swim is only a short portion of the race...shake off that bad swim quickly!
put up a bright balloon in the racking area
I loved the 5 gallon bucket for transitions...you can carry gear and then sit on it for transitions

sonyachan

Inspiring and helpful for us newbies! Way to go! Sounds like you definitely conquered it!