CLEARWATER RACE REPORT

I'm not sure what is going on this race season, but woke up to another rainy morning. Fortunately it was only in the metro area. I had to drive about an hour north to get to the race. This time I was able to get a "normal" pre race breakfast. The drive up was very relaxing and I was able to get focused and prepared mentally. This is something I'm working on as I know race morning at Ironman will be hectic.

As I set up transition I wanted to get out on the bike and warm up a little. I noticed that the wind was about 20-25 mph straight out of the south. Over the last year or so, I have noticed that I am stronger in windy conditions.

Swim
A little longer swim this time compared to my last race. Right before the gun goes off, I move off to the right of the main pack. I jump in and settle into my race pace right away. It was nice to swim my pace and not getting beat up and pushed around. Swim went very smooth n fast!  It ended up being my fastest open water swim!  Came out of the water 9th in my AG. Good thing my swim was fast because these guys came to race!  Fast group!

T1
Had a great transition, with no mistakes!  Passed 5 in transition before heading out to bike.

Bike
Within the first mile, I drop my chain!  Stupid mistake on my part by shifting both front n back at the same time. I NEVER do this, but I didn't freak out. I pulled to the right, stopped n put it back on. Now I was on a mission. Started out with a tail wind, passing one after another!  Ended up with the 3rd fastest bike split in my AG. Also another PR!  I was stoked but also realistic going into the run.

T2
As I came into transition I entered the wrong row. I had to pick my bike up and over the bike rack, into the right spot. 3rd fastest transition.

Run
Getting onto the run, I never really found my legs. After a PR in both the swim AND the bike, I knew it was possible that it was going to be a long run. First of all, I'm not a great trail runner. Second, my foot is not a 100% and the uneven ground proved to be too much for my current state of recovery. I crossed the finish line but not in the ideal condition.

Finished 8th in my AG. I was really happy overall, as two PR's don't happen everyday!  I have learned to control my breathing while racing. I believe I just needed a couple races under my belt. I am currently working on my endurance on the bike and slowly adding miles on the run. Lots of things learned from this race!