#racetips

Just read this on Twitter and thought it was worth sharing with first time racers, whether you compete in Triathlon, Spartan, or any other type of race (or competition for that matter).

I made it out of my duathlon with a 3rd place age group finish! I am even more excited because I improved my times in all phases since my last race. Actually, my run times were considerably better, and I ran negative splits. My bike average mph landed right in the range I aimed for!

Here are some things I learned from this race:

Make several trips to the bathroom, it will make your race way more amazing.

If it's chilly, dress accordingly. It doesn't matter what everyone else is wearing. (Yeah, I sported CK Performance pants.)

Jam to some music pre-race.

Run in shoes you love.

Mark your bike so you can find it.

Practice, practice, practice transitions!

Take in the scenery & enjoy nature. Don't hit the caterpillars on the road yo!

Prepare for racing uphill, into the wind. This is a highly mental sport: Flying by someone going uphill really crushes their mindset.

Don't get a bike because it's popular. Fall in love a bike, and then buy it; it'll make it that much sweeter when someone screams, "I love your bike!" in the transition area.

Bring gummy snacks! They're yummy and don't feel like thick water (gels, ew).

Stay hydrated.

When the last run comes along, just dig deep. Everyone else is in pain too. Don't stop. Don't Walk. You are almost done, and you can pass the people in front of you.