Spring Sprint Race Report

A week late, but still a good story to tell.  Last year was the first time that I did the Spring Sprint Triathlon.  It is the shortest distance race of my year and I enjoy it because it is such a fast, early season race and because they have divisions for the kids.  It is SOOO COOOL to see the little ones racing.  I happened to be in the transition area this year as the kids were coming into T1 and T2... from the swim and transitioning into the bike and from the bike going to the run.  I was cheering and clapping and giggling to myself as they made all of the same mistakes that we all make in transition... and then some.  One little boy knocked over the entire bike rack... one boy just dropped his bike in the middle of the row, left it and started his run... one little girl started to run with her bike helmet on... that was sooooo cute to watch!

As usual, I'll let the photos tell the tale of my race...

Me, Tammy (one of my race group competitors) and
her husband, Frank.  I've gotten to know Tammy on
Facebook and at several races.  Tammy led us in a special
"pre race" prayer that I know kept us all safe in this race!

I LOVE this shot!  We were the first wave of the day and I'm the one in the middle adjusting my goggles. 
I do have to say, this was my worst swim experience ever!  I've started with big male groups before, but I've never been
kicked or punched (and somewhat intentionally) as much as I was in those short 400 meters!  Let this serve as another  reminder that I need to trust myself to start front and center in the swim.  I finished before most of these guys and had to fight my way up front because I thought they would be faster... ;-)

... about 30 seconds to the finish line.  This was my first race run of the season after
an injuy all off season.  The run was HARD and I had to push with everything I
had to finish strong.  I am still amazed everyday how much of this race is
mental... I believe it is half physical, half mental...

So you saw us before the race, and here is the after shot of me
 and Tammy... and I always say that she has the BEST race
hair EVER! (Mine is in a little mess under my hat!)

Anna playing around while we were waiting for the awards...
... because...

I TOOK 1ST PLACE!  (And beat the under
40 year olds, too!)

I'm now preparing for my hardest race of the year, our high school reunion triathlon relay (and I pulled the run - AUGH), and a century bike ride.  I have some weight, distance training, and confidence issues to address at the moment, but know I can do it.  I'll be sharing more about this over the next few weeks. 

For today, I'm thrilled I was able to keep it together for this race, and that my wonderful husband continues to support my early morning training and even earlier morning races!