First Tri-Relay Experience

Post-Race Analysis -
Huge Props to ChasquiJordan, ChasquiMorgan and ChasquiTristan for their stellar performance this weekend. This was my first experience at any triathlon. I was impressed by not only the sheer display of athleticism, but by how much fun the entire event was.

That said, running the relay was truly a learning experience.

The first thing I learned is that I have been spending too much time behind my desk. I seriously thought I'd be able to competitively run in the race without training all that much. HUGE mistake.
The first three miles were smooth. I was pumped to be running. The weather was not too hot, I was passing people right and left (granted they had just swum and biked while I sat in the exchange). Regardless it felt good.

As I began the fourth mile, which was in the middle of the desert and almost entirely uphill, I realized I had no endurance. I began to second guess my pre-race dinner at California Pizza Kitchen which consisted of an entire Hot Wing Pizza with extra Blue Cheese dressing the night before with Jordan. I also began to question the wisdom of my rationalization that running on a treadmill with the incline at a 1% was good enough for hill training!

These thoughts, combined with the heat, lack of endurance, and lack of training, culminated in a disappointing and slowest finishing time I've ever posted in a race. However, there were many positives which I was able to take away from the run.
1st - my knee is no longer bothering me and I think I'll be entirely set for Ragnar LV.

2nd - I've got the fever for cycling. Ever since the race I can't stop thinking how awesome it'd be to race for Team Chasqui Cycle. I was heavy into Mountain Biking during high school and first three years of college, but since law school I have not ridden a bike except to ride to school. I've been checking the world wide web for a killer deal on a bike and am this much closer to entering the sport.

3rd - I've got the fever for swimming. ChasquiTristan and ChasquiMorgan were inspiring in the water. I used to play water polo, although you couldn't tell now, so I found my drag suit and plan on getting back into it. Running is fun, but mixing it up for the next Sprint Triathlon seems like good way to stay injury free, not bored, and in better all around shape.

Overall, the experience was awesome and I can't wait for Ragnar LV.