So here it is- I ran the Jay Benson triathlon on Sunday here in Albuquerque. I woke up in the middle of the night with the wind pounding terribly against my bedroom window and all I could think was 'I can't even ride the bike that great when it's not windy...' But I got up and got ready and headed out to the military base (where the race was).
Sheldon was very helpful and together we figured out where to put my bike and how to lay out all my stuff so that it would be ready for transition (the in between events time when you change your gear, which by the way is also timed), and all the other logisitics. So I went and got my body marked with my number and age and all that jazz- they do this at triathlons for some reason, even though now everything is computerized. I guess they still feel like embarassing you when you get passed by a lady who has a '68' on her leg, you realize that is her age and that you are a slow runner.
Anyway, I warmed up lined up and then headed out on the run. I made it in pretty good time actually, then transitioned to the bike, which took longer than it should have, but I'll know better for the next time. The bike ride was 12 miles- it was great going out because it was mostly flat or slightly downhill. However, remember the wind I mentioned...well, it was in my face the whole way back, which by now you can figure out was ALL uphill. It sucked, but I made it back in.
Sheldon was standing at my transition area so I knew where to go and he said just leave your socks on and run over to the pool. So I did, and ruined a pair of socks, but we just left them there, so oh well. I jumped in the pool and it felt very good, but I realized I had to get going and not think about the cool water. I passed lots and lots of people- did I mention that I have been going swimming about 3 days a week (at 4:30 am)? So I did my 400 m and there are people at the end that pull you out of the pool so you can cross the finish line on foot. I did and right there waiting for me was Sheldon, my mom and her friend. it was very nice. My time was 1:34:48.
I did well, but I will kick more butt next time!
