(Photo courtesy of Paul)
This year, my outdoor season began in Florida (St. Petersburg — St. Anthony’s Tri). Paul kindly drove down from NC with the tandem so that we could race.
Saturday included a Para clinic (led by Aaron and Kristen). Paul and I had an opportunity to try the swim course. This also led to an improved tether choice, courtesy of Aaron.
On Sunday, after waiting quite a while for our wave to start, we made it into the water. Because the tide was out, a big part (~50m) of the short sides of the “rectangle” were too shallow to swim in. So we walked/ran in that part of the swim. The longer part had consistent waves, which led to a lot of movement in the swim.
After a long run from the swim exit to transition (about .5 mile), we got out onto the bike. That run was not fun, and I have no idea how some people run full marathons barefoot…
After a reasonably solid bike, and a long run in/out with it, we headed out onto the run.
When we started the run, it wasn’t too bad. I would guess high 70s and low humidity. But before we got a mile in, it became hotter and more humid. Both of these took their toll on me, and the later parts of the run were walk/run. Because of this, I also got temporarily pulled by medical at the end for a cool down session.
Even with all these struggles, I came away with a 2nd place (Male PTVI) finish!
Thanks to Paul for guiding and all his help. Thanks to Aaron and Kristen for all of their help throughout the weekend.
