Started the day with a text to Marky, asking since our two poop principal is for running for triathlons is it three poops? He called saying "whatever moves you." His real reason for calling was to let me know his dad had passed away that night. It was expected but still sucks losing a loved one. Told him this race was dedicated to him and his family. I'm still looking for a card that says, "why can't the people you dislike die first?"
After setting up and then having to run back to the transition area to get my goggles and swim cap, it was time to start. The swim was uneventful, which for me is a win. Felt more comfortable than in past swims, thanks to the lessons I took leading up to this. BK, I recall you talking about the Total Immersion swim lessons. That's what I took. Has really help my swim confidence and relaxing and not fighting the water.
After the swim I changed into dry shorts since it was cool, windy and possible rain. Last time I did Beaver Freezer my crotch got very cold. After a fairly smooth transition headed out on the bike. It was windy but other than that nice conditions. Pleasant ride, being aware not to over exert and to hydrate. Then at mile 6 I attempted to downshift approaching a hill and my chain slipped and got stuck between gears. It was good and stuck. Another cyclist stopped to help but both of us working on it couldn't loosen it. I started the 3.5-4 mile walk back to the transition area.
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| It starts out well |
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| Coasting into transition w/broken chain |
A couple of volunteers said they would call back for a rescue ride but none came. As I walked back being passed by riders, I 1) was glad it wasn't raining, 2) thought about packing up when I got back to the transition. As I continued to walk with plenty of time to reflect, I was proud to be out here and decided that Marky would tell me that the run is what we look forward to, it's the best part. So I decided I'd finish the run.
I finally reached the transition. As I walked up to the entrance and dismount line the volunteer gave me an inquisitive look. I said, "Oh this is where I was supposed to dismount!" I changed into my running shoes and headed out. No wobbly bike legs to adjust to just stiff legs and back from walking four miles in cycling shoes. The run course is 3 one mile loops with a .1 to the finish inside the campus quad. First mile was 8:20, second was 16:36, third was 25:05. I like the mile laps, they seemed to go by quickly. Very pleased with the run.
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| Finishing with the best part! |
Even though I wasn't able to complete the event as planned, I am happy with my swim and run. Dropped my bike off at the bike shop on my way home to get the chain fixed and a spring tune up. Better bike leg next time.
