Ugh 0400 is way to early to be awake.  I Started the morning with my usual pre-race routine.  Got up, made coffee(most important), ate my peanut butter on toast, and got my things together.  I was at my brothers house  by 0500.

The gps told us we would get there in 2hrs, but it only took us about 1hr 20min.  We got a great parking spot, got our packets, and set up in the transition area.  I choose a spot close to the bike in/out. 

There were a couple of vendors set-up, and since we were early I had time to drool over a couple of nice bikes the had set up, and I also purchased a pair of Adidas racing flats for $20.  They had a whole table of shoes.  I also got a matching two piece Sugio tri outfit, for $50.  I love a race where I can shop too. 

After I got my chip, and chatted with fellow rabbit, Randy H. I went for a warm up run with Dan.  It was starting to get hot and humid already.  After the run I grabbed my goggles and cap and headed to the water.  The swim was going to be in a triangular fashion.   I got in the water and started to swim.  The water was warm, and you could actually see a few feet in front of you.  

The biathlon started first, and our race started around 0810.  I was in the first wave.  At the start I struggled for position, but kept swimming.  Once I rounded the first buoy I felt great.  I could actually swim a couple strokes without having to spot.  Out of the water and up to T1.  I remembered what Dan said pre race.  Stay to the left of the tree.  So I had no problem finding my bike.  Glasses, Helmet, socks(yes socks) shoes, and go. 

The bike had a few hills and a slight head wind on part of it.  I knew there was a girl that beat me out of the water, but i soon passed her, she was on a mountain bike.  This put as 1st female.  It was exciting while it lasted.  After the 6 mile turn around I saw another female closing in quick.  I think she blew by me before mile 7.  There was no catching her.  Now it was a matter of holding on to 2nd. 

My T2 wasn’t as fast as T1. I went past my row, and came around on the other side. Got my bike on the rack, helmet off, shoes on, put my had and belt on while I was running out.  The run was on  a trail  around the park.  I felt much better this week on the run.  I t was hot, and there was a few hills, but not bad.  I passed a few people, which usually never happens.   The last mile I was hanging on to an older man from Peoria’s  tri club.  I was closing in on the finish and I saw Dan he yelled ” Sprint Kim, give all you got.”  or something like that.  I passed the guy I had been trail and had a strong finish. 

My goal was to finish under 1:10, and I did it! I finished 29th overall with a time of 1:09:05!  I was so happy.  I knew I had finished 2nd overall female.  This time was my sprint tri PR.  I don’t care if the course was shorter than last week.  I grabbed some water and went to talk to my brother so we could analyze the course and our performance. 

We hung around for the awards, and Very greatful Dan brought lawn chairs.  It’s not very often I finish in the top 3, so of course they only gave 1st place overall awards.  I did  get 1st in my age group medal though.  Dan finished well, I’m sure you’ll read his post.  I had a great race, and a great time!