Deschutes Dash Sprint Tri 7/14/18

As I wrote a few days ago, triathlons have too much organizing. I forgot to bring my swim goggles to the race, left them in the apartment. I didn't realize it until I was putting on my wet suit, so too late for even Rachel to run back and get them.

The water was about 61-63 degrees according to the race director. Cold! We were able to get in the water and "warm up" which was nice. I ddn't think the swim would be too much of a problem even without the goggles, I'd swim with my head up for most of it. Since there was a strong down stream current the swim would go fast. Right from the start though I was not able to get into a comfortable rhythm and get my heart rate and breathing down. The water was just too cold. I breaststroke most of the way.

Out of the water and through transition, wet suit came off fairly smoothly. Nothing forgotten here, check.

The bike was 6 miles out on a gradual up hill, so coming down was fast. I was able to maintain a decent pace going out and hit the mid and high 20s coming down without forcing the effort. However, I could tell my lack of bike training as my butt and hamstrings began to tighten the last couple miles. I also tried to remind myself to drink as it was a sunny day and getting hot.

Once off the bike I was really sore in the hamstrings and glutes. It was painful to sit down to change shoes.

Starting the run, my legs were bike heavy. I told myself just an easy pace to get your running legs. By this time it was hot and I was concerned during that first mile my calf might cramp and my legs were still toast. I walk the short steep uphills during to the turn around. I was going slow, 12 minute per mile pace. At the turn around I stopped for extra water and a Gu hoping this would give some energy. It did help, also it was now down hill back to the finish. I was able to run consistently and my running legs were back, but I was hot and tired. No big push to the finish, just a steady pace all the way to the finish.

 

Based upon my training, which basically was running, pool swimming and no biking, I gave it my best effort. Altitude and heat I couldn't train for. It felt good to finish and get another one under my belt. Will I do another? I seriously don't know.

 1:38:33