Temp at the start was 72'f with a good breeze blowing from the west. Water temp in the salty Indian River was 77.3' which was quite pleasant. A dolphin cruised through the swim area just before the start. My swim was great though I was surprised when my hand touched the bottom; there was a sandbar on part of the course!
The 24 mile bike course was two out-and-back loops going north along the river and I expected it to be straight and flat. I found a twisty road with lots of rolling hills as it climbed the bluffs along the river. Plus the outward loops had a stiff headwind as the wind shifted around.
The run loops were also along the river but the south road was flat and the wind kept the heat down. I did have a hamstring cramp running at mile 1.5 that stopped me dead because I started too fast. It worked out quickly though and I picked up the pace to finish with a 2:56:28, good enough for first in my age group. Friend Matt Mahoney won his age group also. Wonderful venue for the race in the city park along the river too; lots of restaurants right there. A great close to a great 2019!
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| Moulton at the ready! |
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| Sunrise on swim course |
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| Ready to go! |
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| Happy finisher! |
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| Matt Mahoney and Karen Hyde |
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| Happy winner! |
