Well, they (actually I) always say that triathlons are more about the conditions than the training, and this was another good example.  We arrived in darkness around 6 am and set up our stuff in the transition area as it gradually grew brighter.  It is in a state park along the shore road (A1A) and you walk through a tunnel under the road onto the beach.  Well, to start with it was around 75 degrees with what seemed like 100% humidity--not good for someone like me who did not get to train for heat.  There was also a good 10-15 mph wind running south to north up A1A.  But best of all were the waves which were quite large--have only been in bigger waves once and that was for some particularly nasty edition of Make-A-Wish in Bethany.

 

Swim started off in third heat of 5.  It took roughly forever to fight through the waves out to the first buoy--even though it was less than 100 yards away.  Once you got past the buoy, there was a nice current to take you north.  However, the waves were so high it was difficult to see the final buoy unless you were on top of a wave, and swallowing a bit of salt water always is great for the digestion.  Once you turned into shore, you had to swim at a sharp angle as the current was continuing to carry you north. A guy told me the swim times were roughly double last year which was calm with strong current.

 

So I cant say I was disappointed to start the bike, although the wind was stiff.  At least I knew when the turnaround came it would be easy going and it was as I rolled back at 20+ mph.  I passed a few and got passed by a few. 

 

Starting the run my legs felt good and my back did not hurt.  We ran into the wind which was not too bad.  Coming back for the last mile and a half you had the wind behind you but it sure felt hot--I was not prepared for it.  Still ran just a tad under 9 minute miles which is ok for me.

 

Nice race, nice party after with live music and lots of food (most of it donuts, danish, and other unhealthy stuff that I have sworn off) and only a 15 minute ride home.  Also a well run race that I would do again. My head still feels hot though..........

 

Gina--saw license plate at tri "Iron Gal"

Mike--I did not see anyone I knew (if you were here we would have seen at least 10)

Susan/Margaret--I have never seen so many tri suits.  Better stock up for the season.

I hear I am not missing anything weather-wise.