Oceanside 70.3 Race Report

Well here is the report for my first 70.3 race. To date this is the longest tri race that I have done and it was one of my most challenging experiences ever. This

race marks a milestone for me a it was almost two years to the day that I decided to compete in my first triathlon. Before I started training I was 100 lbs heavier than I am today. I have accelerated from couch to 70.3 finisher in two years. So, here is how the race went.

I got to the start at about 5:30 and got a spot and got all set up. I almost did not make my swim wave as the port-a-potty lines were really big. I had to run to get in the water for the start. I made it with about 15 seconds to spare. I worked my way up to the front and the gun went off. I felt really good during the swim. I did get off track one time and a paddle guy set me straight, that cost me at least a minute. I exited the water in 29:47 and was feeling really good. After a quick transition I was on the bike. I was a bit concerned about it being cold as I was only wearing a singlet and tri-shorts. However, I was fine.

For about the first 30-35 miles the bike was fantastic. I made it up the big hill and was looking forward to a well paced final 25 miles. No such luck for me. After the big hill there were lots of rollers and a really nasty headwind. I had no idea on how to ride in those kind of conditions, the wind was causing me some grief. It was very challenging to keep a steady pace. I finally pulled it together at about mile 45 although there was still wind. My bike was a 3:10. Going in to the transition I was feeling god, got my shoes on and out for the run.

For about the first 3 miles I felt good and was running slow but at a comfortable pace. From about mile 4 on the run was more like a survival activity. I felt like I was in slow motion mode. Now, I am not a runner at any distance for that matter and know that in the future I have a lots of room for improvement. My run was a 2:36. Put it all together and I did my first half in 6:22. Overall the race was a blast and I will do it again next year.

Now for me it is on to the LA Tri Series at Bonellie!
Jason Smith