I Terres de l’ebre B distance triathlon

We were nothing but numbers at 8 am in the morning in Sant Carles de la Ràpita beach. We were waiting for the referees shot looking to ourselves with passion and agitation. One hundred kilometers to reach in front of us and some hesitation in a distance unknown for me. ITU-Long distance triathlon (3000m swim - 80km bike - 20 run). Well, the bike stage was increased 4 kilometers.

The race started. I knew I had to turn off any emotions to achieve my goal. I had to be confident. I didn’t swim so much this winter so I swam as comfortable as it was possible and, to my surprise, I swam in top of a group for the first 2000 meters and with not much muscle wasting. Then, the ones who were doing drafting, overpast me and I could rest a bit for the last 500 meters. Eventually, the  group became two guys and me. I felt very happy when I saw in my watch that I had finished the first stage in 48 minutes! 

Then, it was time for the bike ride. 84km in a terrible windy day. All the climbing was with a pushing down wind hitting my head and chest. I wish I would have a triathlon specific bike (you know, long distance bikes) but… it is not possible right now. It made me feel happier when I saw expensive bikes overpassing me in the 60th km!!! It was the sign that I was doing a good job. This was the bike stage, check it: 

http://www.mapmytri.com/s/routes/view/road-cycling-map/spain/connecticut/sant-carles-de-la-rapita/26965948

I finished the bike ride in 2h40. An average of 31km/h. I ate 2 power bars and 1 applesauce bag. I drank as I needed because it was very hot. By this time, I am a bit sunburnt.

Hey! I saw my mom cheering me on in the crowd as I arrived to T2 (Jesús-Tortosa). I wondered if I would feel pain on my legs for a minute but suddenly, I realised that I was quite well.

I started running with this motto in mind: “Always, save your last bullet” (I think this translation is not correct… but you understand what I say, for sure). I had to check the way I would pass the 10km… I had a bit aching sensation in my legs. The goal was running under 1h in 10km.. so I achieved and I continued running in the same rythm… like a diesel motor.

Gas is for pros I told myself. Anyway, I did my last efforce in fighting 2 guys and I won them! 1h50min. stage 3. 

:) Finally, 64th place. From my point of view, things are the way you feel it, not the way you’ve done it. So, although it is a good mark I am happier for having such a good time in a Sunday morning in such a good place.

Total: 5h19min12seg