Day 149: Mooseman Triathlon

My splits at Mooseman:
0.93 mi swim: 34:11
27.25 mi bike: 1:27:45
6.2 mi run: 54:55
Total: 3:05:35

Last year, I did a 31:12 swim, a 1:32 bike and a 45:35 run, for a 2:57:20 overall time. My swim was clearly slower. I only put in a half dozen swims this year, so I was not too surprised about that. The first quarter mile or so is pretty freaky, and hard to get relaxed with dozens of other swimmers flailing around. I managed to get in my groove after some space opened up, but on the return leg my back started bothering me, and then my left calf cramped up after someone bumped into me. I kept going, slowly, and eventually it softened up. I was just looking to get it over with.

The bike was better. I bought a new bike last summer, which is considerably lighter, stronger, and easier to shift. I think that made a big difference. Had a problem with my calf cramping up about ten miles in, and my left quad started cramping too, so I had to coast for a few minutes and try to work it out. By that point on the bike, it was a very warm (80's) and quite humid, so the cramping may have been related to hydration. My back was in pain most of the second half of the bike as well.

I knew the first mile of the run would be slow as I transitioned my legs from the bike, but the heat was really bearing down on us, so I was very slow (even walking at times) throughout the run. Every now and then there would be a stretch of shade or a light breeze, and I would pick it up a bit. Even towards the end, I felt I had some reserves left, but the heat was always there to slow me down.

Throughout the race, I was thinking mostly about finishing and trying to enjoy it, rather than pushing my limits to get a good time. Especially on the run - I was interested to see how my 10k would look after the low HR training I've been doing, but I didn't want to kill myself or do any damage in that heat. It is hard to tell how effective the training has been. I tried to wear my HR monitor on the run, but it wasn't getting the signal for some reason.

So overall, I'm glad I did it again. Had some good support up there, and there was no rain this year. Got a massage and a good feed after the race. And it was great to do a workout well in excess of what I usually do. I have some pain and soreness today, but nothing major. Sometimes helps to push harder because it can put the day-to-day aches and pains in better perspective.