Bright sunshine early in the morning and it stayed that way more or less for the whole day. In fact the weather was perfect for triathlon; calm, not too hot and no rain! My start time of 7:50 was a little more civilised this time. The swim was easy-peasy as usual, 400m in Cranbrook leisure centre pool. This time it was 16 lengths up and down each length, moving under the lane rope to the next lane, much easier because I was able to exit the pool from the steps.
I have done this triathlon twice before but could not remember the route. It takes you through lovely, lush countryside, there are hills but quite minor ones in comparison to 7Oaks. However, I was pleased to finish the 20k cycle. Despite cycling being the major component of triathlon I never really enjoy it. I prefer the swim and the run.
The 5k run is through woods and switchbacks up and down quite a lot but I managed to keep running the whole way. No collapsing this time! An enjoyable morning’s exercise in a friendly laid back triathlon. The organisers are not so rule-bound as in other triathlons, but still deliver a professional event. I managed to finish 38 seconds faster than last year, mainly because my transition from swim to bike was much improved. I won my age group again – where are all the oldies in Kent? Many thanks to my two stalwart supporters, Helen James and Richard. Next triathlon, if my knee holds out, is Seaford on 5th July and a tough sea swim.
Swim: 11.48; T1: 2:36; Bike: 1.12; T2 1.34; Run: 41.22
Finish: 2.09.25.