Danskin Triathlon Series

At the urging of my friend Christy Fanous, several of us did the Danskin Triathlon this weekend. This was the first triathlon for all of us, which is OK since the race is geared towards first-timers, and women only. After training somewhat arduously for 2 months, followed by another 2 months of mediocre training, I was mostly prepared. Christy and I had done a practice tri at the Rose Bowl about a week prior to the race, and we did well (besides the throbbing quads).

However, the course on race day was a LITTLE BIT hillier than I had prepared for, which made it a nice challenge. The bike was the most physically draining part of the race, but for me, the most mentally challenging part was the swim. I was actually in decent shape for the swim. It was the part I’d been most nervous about so I’d really trained. However, what I had NOT trained for was being in the middle of a bunch of kicking and paddling women, all equally determined to get to the inside of the curve as I was. Being extremely claustrophobic with “personal space issues” does not help. Each time I’d get into my groove with my stroke, I’d hit some poor woman’s heel, or worse, kick some poor lady behind me. And I swear I had a Siamese twin that stuck right behind or in front of me for at least 75% of the swimming course. Anyway, I was a little disappointed in my swim but I had to get over it since I had two other events left to do. I did end up passing quite a few people on my bike, which felt really good. Of the three events, running is definitely my forte, but it was SO HARD to do last. I did pass a few women running as well.

It was a good race and a challenge - I’d do it again (contrary to what I said on Sunday, Christy!).

6:30 am before the race… me with Christy - swimcaps are so becoming..

The start of our race

On my way to the transition area

This is probably the only picture I’d voluntarily put of myself ONLINE in a swimsuit, running.

At race end with medals

Don’t mess with me

All in a day’s work!