My Tri turned into a Duathlon!

On May 5th of this year I started to train for my first Triathlon! I wasn't quite sure how it was going to fit into my schedule as I was a single parent to four while my husband was away at training. I listened to a new friend, Melissa, and committed to the first two weeks of training without taking breaks. Now it feels like second nature and I may even continue training throughout the year (if facilities for swimming are available in Spain). I am not the greatest swimmer and kind of afraid of open water away from shore. I don't know how I survived living in Hawaii, I think it was the uncautiousness of adolescents. I have technique down but my breathing is still something I am fighting with. I found myself on my back a lot during training and was stressed about whether the backstroke was going to get me through the race. I was encouraged by my fellow trainees to use the stroke that worked best for me no matter what that was. I loved the biking and even more so once I was able to get a road bike. I found myself going fast and liked it. I was constantly trying to beat my fastest speed which topped out at 38mph. Running isn't my favorite but when it comes to competitive races I find it thrilling to try and keep up. For two weeks before the race, I was pretty nauseous anytime I thought about the swim. The night before my house was pretty clean. The morning of the race I was fine not stressed just excited. I got there and my family helped me set up my equipment and I met up with my fellow trainees. We were briefed and headed to the lake, I was still good to go. It wasn't until the gun went off, we took off and then the water churned and people were bumping into me that I panicked. I panicked about panicking in deep water and turned back to shore, passing this very cute older couple taking their time. As I look back I should have hung out with them and taken deep breaths and my time! Because I got out of the water I disqualified and sobbed. My husband was off in the distance clicking away at the camera and the sight upset me even more because he was so excited and I didn't want to disappoint. He comforted me, like he always does, he is great! I headed over to clean up my gear and Melissa and Susan were there encouraging me to just get on my bike and finish the race regardless of disqualifying. The bike and run were awesome and so much fun! We ended with a yummy celebration lunch! I look forward to trying again if possible or even relaying with someone who enjoys swimming!