Danskin 2012 - It's in the Bag!

So finished my SECOND triathlon today... Yip! My goal was to just be a little better than last year and to finish with a smile on my face. I accomplished both goals so it was a good day. 

The Danskin Tri is a pretty friendly event for newbies. I did it last year and felt very comfortable in an "all ladies" environment. There were every shape and size, young and old, fat and thin, athletic and couch potato types that all participated. 

Today's event like last year started off with a 1/2 mile swim in Lake Washington. I didn't wear a wet suit this year as it took more time to take it off than I liked. I am not a strong swimmer so I had no idea how it would affect my performance. I felt like the water temp was a bit cooler than last year but within a minute I was acclimated and fine. I was able to do more free style than last year and just overall felt stronger with my swim. I still have LOTS of room for improvement and my plan is to swim 20 laps at the pool at least once a week. 

The 12 mile bike route takes us around Genesee Park and over the floating bridge to Mercer Island. I have spent very little time on my bike and it shows! I take 2 spinning classes every week (Thank Goodness) but nothing replaces time on the bike, changing gears, balancing and such. I still have LOTS of room for improvement here also. I recently got an indoor trainer for my bike so that will give me more opportunity to ride as it is tough to do on the streets around where I live. My plan for the coming year is to bike a little at least somewhere once a week. 

The 5k run is where I feel most comfortable. This is the final leg of the event and I started out feeling a bit winded. I took it slow and steady and just kept moving. This year I was able to do the entire route (including the killer hill) without stopping to walk. I still have room for improvement with my running but according to their timing chip I did manage a PR with my 5k today.. yip! I think the course I typically run is harder than what I did today so that obviously makes a difference. My plan for the coming year is to continue to run 2 or more times a week and also complete another 1/2 marathon. 

For sure I want to do the Danskin again next year... and what an awesome finishers medal!