Fun Group Ride Sat, First Open Water Swim Monday
On Saturday, Sarah and I got to ride with a really nice group of friends. There were 10-12 of us, and it was a great change of pace for us. It was a pretty leisurely ride, but we rode up to the lake and came close to the Michigan state line before turning around. There were some great hills along the way, and I think that everyone had a great time – I know that WE did. 🙂 We got in about 63 miles in 3.5 hours, and my legs felt great afterward.
This morning we took the kids to Ohio Street Beach and each got in a nice open water swim. It was my first time in a wetsuit and my first time swimming in open water. I had heard so many stories about people struggling with open water swimming and even having panic attacks in races. I didn’t think any of that would be an issue for me b/c I’ve gotten so comfortable in the pool. Wow – was I ever was mistaken!
The wetsuit was so tight, and the water was so cold that I felt like I couldn’t breathe. I was really surprised to feel so uncomfortable. Additionally, it was disorienting to swim without lines. Every time I looked up, I was swimming in a different direction. 😉 I will definitely need to practice this several more times before my first race. It got a little bit more natural toward the end of my 30-minute swim, but I hope to be MUCH more comfortable before the Valpo Triathlon in July….
Jim
PS ~ Happy Memorial Day to everyone!
Dr. Jim Arnold
Northwest Indiana Cosmetic, Family, Invisalign, and Sedation Dentistry
Smiles of Valparaiso & Associates
219-728-4433 (Chesterton)
219-246-2319 (Valparaiso)
Naperville Cosmetic, Family, and Invisalign Dentistry
Smiles By Dr. Gibson & Associates
630-357-3333 (Naperville)