#2 FOR A REASON

I think the # 2 as a race number was an omen. I finished second in my age group of 2. After the duathlon though I was so happy with how things went I actually felt like #1. My main goal of the race was not to give into my urge to walk alot during the second run. That I achieved and I felt good. I do not have any breakdown of times but I think that I finished in 2:10 which is faster than last year. My garmin totally blanked out because the runs were on a trail surrounded by trees.

My race day-
The race began at 630am. I wanted to be up at 4am to get out the door. It is a 45 minute drive and the transition closed at 6. I woke up at 4:30. I ate some toast quickly then loaded Silver and head out. With no traffic on the road, I made it in 30 min. I found a great place to park and headed for the transition to set up. On the way there, I meet #3. He also signed up early. We joked alot about our numbers as we set up.

On the first run, we started at the first wave of the tri which I liked because on the bike I would blend in and not be so far behind. Everyone shot off and I waddled along. My pace was around 11:00. I finished last but knew I could make up time on the bike.

The transition was smooth. I took a GU and drank some water. I took off and felt good. The bike course was mainly flat with a few hills. Silver and I were able to pass quite a few others. I will be anxious to see my time. I could see the other lady in my age group but was not able to catch up and knew she'd lose me in the run.

The second transition was slow but I took another GU and headed out. For the first half mile my legs felt like cement. The course is beautiful along the Fox River. I am not sure of my pace but I walked through the water stops and ran the rest. At mile 3 I was passed by a gentleman who was 82. I told him great job and he left me in his dust. What an inspiration. The last half mile was filled with pictures cups of beer. There was cold Sam Adams waiting for us at the finish. Great motivation.

I was happy with the whole thing. It is one of those races that I would love to do every year. I'll post my time as soon as they are available.

Waddling with satisfaction....