I did my first triathlon sprint - actually, my first race ever, a week ago in Clark Lake, MI. It was a half mile swim, 13 mile bike and 4 mile run. I was pretty nervous when I saw how far the buoys looked, but I knew that would happen from reading articles on this site. I loved the excitement in the air as I mingled with the other athletes.

After hopping on my bike and heading out, I realized that I had a few mechanical things going on that slowed me down. My nerves had clouded my mind before the race or I probably would have caught them. After about mile 5, I realized that no one had passed me in a long time and that I was coming in last. Many runners told me that that was their worse fear. When the realization hit me, I still felt great. This was my first time and I just wanted to finish.

And finish I did - With two nice blisters and some sore hamstrings, but a happy heart! The volunteers and other racers were very friendly and cheered me on. I felt great at the finish line and now, armed with all the "this is what I would do different" knowledge, I intend to do another tri next year.

What a great sport! Thanks, triathanewbie for all the advice leading up to the race. This Web site is a great resource that I have recommended and will continue to recommend to friends.

Sherry from Michigan

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